BACTERIAL MUTATIONS AND ANTIMICROBIAL RESISTANCE: GENETIC MECHANISMS AND PUBLIC HEALTH IMPLICATIONS

Abstract

This study analyzes the genetic mechanisms associated with bacterial mutations and their implications for antimicrobial resistance (AMR), a critical challenge for global public health. Through a literature review focused on high-surveillance epidemiological pathogens, including Escherichia coli, Salmonella enterica, Shigella spp., and Campylobacter spp., the molecular bases enabling evasion of major bactericidal and bacteriostatic antibiotics were examined. The findings demonstrate that selective pressure exerted by the indiscriminate use of drugs and subinhibitory concentrations critically accelerates the fixation of advantageous chromosomal mutations and the expression of mutator phenotypes. Beyond the severe clinical, epidemiological, and socioeconomic impacts resulting in a significant increase in global morbidity and mortality, this work highlights the urgency of coordinated responses. It concludes that the evolutionary advance of AMR requires the consolidation of multidisciplinary antimicrobial stewardship programs, the strengthening of institutional infection control measures, and the promotion of innovative therapeutic alternatives, such as phage therapy. These strategies are essential to mitigate the loss of efficacy in conventional antibiotic therapy and to safeguard healthcare systems.