"Bacterial Gene Spread Takes Unexpected Turn, Scientists Find"
Scientists have discovered a surprising tradeoff in the spread of antibiotic-resistant genes through plasmids in bacteria. Contrary to common belief, plasmids that allow bacteria to grow faster do not necessarily spread more easily. A study found that intermediate-cost plasmids outcompete both low and high-cost counterparts, indicating that acquisition costs manifest as a delay rather than a growth rate. Understanding the factors that control plasmid acquisition costs could help limit the spread of antibiotic resistance and potentially utilize plasmids for beneficial purposes. Further research will investigate the genetic and environmental conditions that favor horizontal gene transfer.
