Antimicrobial resistance and antimicrobial residues in biofilm in livestock farms: a systematic review

The emergence and spread of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in livestock biofilms pose a significant threat to global health. Livestock biofilms are viewed as potential reservoirs of antimicrobial-resistant bacteria, contributing to the transmission of AMR to humans and animals. Limiting the emergence and spread of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is critical for preserving the ability to treat bacterial infection in humans, animals, and plants, improving food safety and security, protecting the environment, and maintaining progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals. This study focuses on the critical issue of AMR and antimicrobial residues in biofilms within livestock farms. The study aim was to asses the level of AMR and residues in biofilm in livestock and identify the methodologies used to investigate these two issues. By following a structured methodology, including defining research questions, identifying and selecting eligible studies, we sought to synthesize available information on AMR, resistance genes, and antimicrobial residues in biofilms in poultry, pig, and cattle farms. We employed a comprehensive search strategy across four different reputable bibliographic databases i.e., AGRICOLA, Web of science, Scopus, Medline (PubMed) to identify relevant studies, ensuring a thorough examination of the topic. The selection process involved screening of a) titles, and abstracts, followed by b) full texts screening by six independent reviewers to ensure the inclusion of pertinent research. Data extraction and synthesis were conducted to obtained valuable information on e.g., animal species, country of origin, level of AMR, presence and abundance of residues, prevalence of resistant bacteria. The review was carried out following PRISMA guidelines for reporting systematic reviews and meta-analyses. To conclude, this study sought to provide a comprehensive understanding of antimicrobial resistance and antimicrobial residues in biofilms in livestock farms, by identify the level of resistance and residues in livestock farming and the methodologies used for studying them, thereby contributing to global efforts to safeguard human and animal health, food safety, environmental protection, and sustainable development goals.