Horizontal gene transfer (HGT) – or the non-genealogical transmission of DNA between organisms – is the dominant mode responsible for the spread of antibiotic resistance genes. Combined with antibiotic overuse and misuse, HGT (primarily via conjugation) has compromised the efficacy of nearly every single antimicrobial available. Traditionally, reducing overall antibiotic use has been the primary approach to reversing resistance. However, despite widespread antibiotic stewardship initiatives, resistance can persist for long periods of time.  In this webinar, we discuss the prevalence of plasmid-mediated antibiotic resistance, the role of HGT in maintaining antibiotic resistance even in the absence of antibiotic selection, and how we can use mathematical modeling to guide novel intervention strategies towards minimizing this risk.
 

Learning Objectives: 

1. What is horizontal gene transfer
2. How is HGT relevant to antibiotic resistance
3. Using mathematical modeling to understand HGT dynamics and guide useful therapeutic approaches