Mechanisms of Antimicrobial Resistance of E. coli

Abstract

Escherichia coli has become a major significant pathogen behind infections, many researches have been conducted on possible drugs that can successfully eradicate the pathogenic isolates. To ensure survival, E. coli strains improvised resistant mechanisms to allow them to maneuver through with life among bactericidal agents. The chapter gives an overview of the antimicrobial resistance mechanisms found in major groups of antimicrobial drugs. E. coli uses enzymes in defying drug susceptibility for example aminoglycoside modifying enzymes in modifying drug recognition sites, in cephalosporin, penicillin the pathogen indulged in the use of β-lactamases to break down the β-lactam ring on the structure of the drugs. In fluoroquinolones, the pathogen uses efflux pumps, DNA gyrase mutation as a mechanism of resistance. The continuous use of drugs induces resistance mechanisms to increase, there is a need for continuous researches on drugs effectivity and the discovery of new and better medication to fight against E. coli pathogens.