Multi-Drug Resistant Bacteria Found on International Space Station (ISS)

Scientists from the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT-M) and NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) collaborated to study the behaviour of multi-drug-resistant pathogens (Enterobacter Bugandensis) aboard the International Space Station (ISS).

About Enterobacter Bugandensis:

1. Enterobacter bugandensis is a relatively novel species within the Enterobacter genus.
2. Discovered in 2013, it was isolated from cases of bloodstream infections in Uganda.

Key Characteristics:

1. Morphology: Gram-negative, rod-shaped bacterium.
2. Habitat: Found in various environments, including soil, water, and the gastrointestinal tracts of animals and humans, similar to other Enterobacter species.
3. Pathogenicity: Primarily affects immunocompromised individuals, causing infections such as bloodstream infections, respiratory infections, urinary tract infections, and wound infections.
4. Resistance: E. bugandensis exhibits resistance to multiple antibiotics, making treatment challenging.
   • Resistance mechanisms include beta-lactamase production, efflux pumps, and mutations that reduce drug uptake.

Multi-drug-Resistant Pathogens:

1. Definition: Multi-drug-resistant (MDR) pathogens are microorganisms that have developed resistance to several antimicrobial agents, usually three or more antimicrobial categories.
2. Types: MDR can occur in various microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and parasites.

Antibiotic Resistance:

1. Definition: Antibiotic resistance is the ability of bacteria to survive exposure to antibiotics that would normally kill or inhibit their growth.
2. Significance: Antibiotic resistance poses a significant global health concern.

Must Check: Best IAS Coaching In Delhi