Plasmid-bacteria associations in the clinical context.

Abstract

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is one of the most pressing global health problems, with plasmids playing a central role in its evolution and dissemination. Over the past decades, many studies have investigated the ecoevolutionary dynamics between plasmids and their bacterial hosts. However, what drives the epidemiological success of certain plasmid-bacterium associations remains unclear. In this opinion article, we review which factors influence these associations and underline that studying plasmid-host interactions of clinical relevance is critical for understanding the evolution and spread of AMR. We also highlight the increasing importance of integrating experimental research with bioinformatics and machine learning tools to study plasmid-bacteria dynamics. This combined approach will assist researchers to dissect the molecular mechanisms underlying successful plasmid-host associations and to design strategies to prevent and predict future high-risk associations.