The Danger of Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) in Animals
(https://share.google/images/epa3Ydpxlht3J77m3) The Invisible Pandemic Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is now widely recognized as one of the most formidable global health threats of the 21st century. It fundamentally undermines the efficacy of existing antibiotics and jeopardizes the very foundations of modern medicine — from routine surgical safety to cancer chemotherapy and neonatal care. The relentless rise of resistance has transformed once-treatable bacterial infections into persistent, sometimes untreatable, conditions, eroding decades of medical progress. This growing crisis is fueled by the uncontrolled and often unjustified use of antimicrobial agents across human healthcare, veterinary practice, and agriculture. Without coordinated global action, AMR could evolve into the next true pandemic. The gravity of this issue is underscored by the World Economic Forum, which classifies antibiotic resistance as a transnational risk exceeding the capacity of any single organization or nation to manage alone. The global outlook is dire. Projections indicate that annual mortality linked to resistant infections may exceed 10 million deaths by 2050, far surpassing the current estimated 700,000 deaths each year, underscoring the urgent need to decode the biological mechanisms that drive this phenomenon, including how resistance arises, adapts, and moves across species and environments (O’Neill, 2016). At its core, AMR is an evolutionary challenge. The emergence and spread of resistance stem from genetic variation within bacterial populations and the selective pressures exerted by antibiotic exposure. Resistance traits can originate de novo, through spontaneous mutations or structural rearrangements during DNA replication, and subsequently proliferate via horizontal gene transfer (HGT) — the lateral exchange of genetic material between unrelated bacterial cells. HGT serves as a conduit for resistance genes to traverse species boundaries, enabling pathogens to acquire multi-drug resistance in a single event. This mechanism is particularly dominant among Gram-negative bacteria, where mobile genetic elements facilitate rapid adaptation. Ultimately, the dissemination of resistance forms a complex ecological network linking human health, animal husbandry, and environmental reservoirs such as water, food, and sewage systems. Understanding these interconnections is essential to curbing the invisible pandemic of antimicrobial resistance before it surpasses our collective capacity to respond. 1.The Genetic Arms Race — How Bacteria Learn to Resist Initiation of Resistance: Random Mutations and Natural Selection At the evolutionary level, AMR emerges from the interplay between genetic diversity and selective pressure. Random mutations introduce variation, while antibiotics act as the environmental filter determining which variants survive. Random Mutations: De Novo Innovation Resistance can originate spontaneously through replication or repair errors in bacterial DNA. These heritable mutations are passed vertically to daughter cells. Although most mutations are harmful, a rare few confer survival benefits under antibiotic stress. Bacteria’s rapid reproduction amplifies this effect: Escherichia coli can divide every 20 minutes, producing over 68 billion descendants in 12 hours. This massive population size raises the probability that resistant mutants arise purely by chance. The spontaneous mutation frequency for antibiotic resistance typically falls between 10⁻⁸ and 10⁻⁹ per generation—so in a population of 10⁹ cells, at least one resistant clone is likely to appear. Under oxidative or chemical stress, this rate may increase dramatically. When antibiotics enter the environment, these mutations become the substrate of natural selection, allowing resistant lineages to thrive while susceptible ones vanish. Natural Selection: The Filter of Survival Antibiotics impose a strong selective pressure on microbial populations. Resistant bacteria, whether by mutation or gene acquisition, enjoy a survival advantage and replicate preferentially. Over successive generations, this produces a predominantly resistant community. Resistance often entails a fitness cost, such as slower growth, yet under continuous exposure, the advantage of drug survival outweighs that penalty. Secondary “compensatory” mutations can subsequently restore growth efficiency, cementing resistant strains as dominant even in the absence of antibiotics. Examples of Resistance Initiation Mycobacterium tuberculosis — Multidrug-Resistant TB (MDR-TB) Resistance in M. tuberculosis arises almost exclusively via chromosomal mutations. For instance, rifampicin resistance results from point mutations in the rpoB gene encoding the β-subunit of RNA polymerase, which reduces drug binding. Progressive accumulation of such mutations can transform a susceptible infection into a pan-resistant strain. Staphylococcus aureus — MRSA Evolution Resistance to penicillin G emerged in S. aureus as early as 1943, within a year of its introduction. Later, the acquisition of the staphylococcal cassette chromosome mec (SCCmec)—a mobile element conferring methicillin resistance—produced methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA). This element imposed minimal fitness costs, enabling pandemic clones such as ST8:USA300 to thrive. S. aureus can also acquire rifampicin resistance through independent rpoB mutations, exemplifying the synergy of mutation and horizontal gene transfer. Escherichia coli — Multidrug-Resistant Strains MDR E. coli often combine chromosomal and plasmid-borne mechanisms. Mutations in gyrA, gyrB, and parC yield fluoroquinolone resistance, while plasmids carrying CTX-M β-lactamases confer cephalosporin resistance. The pandemic clone ST131 illustrates this convergence, integrating both pathways to achieve broad resistance. Environmental surveillance reveals such strains in wastewater systems, highlighting how human waste streams perpetuate environmental dissemination. Selective Pressure from Antibiotic Overuse The misuse of antibiotics across medicine, agriculture, and aquaculture accelerates resistance evolution by continuously applying selective pressure. In Healthcare Antibiotics are indispensable but frequently misused. Inappropriate prescribing and patient demand sustain excessive use. Resistant mutants can dominate within days of therapy initiation. Hospitals, intensive care units, and nursing facilities become reservoirs of entrenched resistance. In Agriculture and Food Production The agricultural sector remains a powerful amplifier of AMR. Antibiotics are administered to healthy livestock for prophylaxis and growth promotion, and used in crops and aquaculture. This continuous exposure fosters resistance transfer between animals, humans, and the environment. The colistin resistance gene mcr-1, first detected in China, arose from decades of agricultural colistin use and has since spread worldwide. Food products themselves act as vehicles for resistant bacteria, underscoring the importance of a One Health approach that unites human, animal, and environmental management. Visual Aid — Mutation-Driven vs. Acquired Resistance Mechanism Description Example Pathogen Clinical Impact Mutation (Vertical Transmission) Random chromosomal alterations that modify target structures (e.g., ribosomal subunits, enzymes). Mycobacterium tuberculosis Drives multidrug- and pan-resistant TB; also mediates fluoroquinolone resistance via gyrA/gyrB mutations. Gene Acquisition (Horizontal Transfer) Uptake
WHAT ARE THE FACTORS THAT AFFECT “ANTIBIOTIC RANK”?
Factors Influencing the Ranking of Veterinary Antibiotics Resistance Potential One of the most critical factors in ranking veterinary antibiotics is their potential to promote antibiotic resistance. Drugs like fluoroquinolones and third-generation cephalosporins are closely monitored because of the risk that resistant strains can transfer from animals to humans through food consumption or direct contact. Spectrum of Activity Broad-spectrum antibiotics are generally ranked higher due to their ability to treat a wide variety of infections. However, overuse of these antibiotics increases the risk of resistance, so a balance must be struck between effectiveness and stewardship. Regulatory Guidelines Global health organizations such as the WHO and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) rank antibiotics based on their importance to human medicine, providing guidance on their use in animals. Critically important antibiotics are subject to more stringent regulations to limit the spread of resistance. Safety Profile The safety of an antibiotic is also a key factor. Drugs with severe side effects, such as aminoglycosides, are used sparingly despite their effectiveness, especially in companion animals. Other factors to consider: The route of administration should be taken into account alongside the categorization when prescribing antibiotics. The list below suggests routes of administration and types of formulation ranked from the lowest to the highest estimated impact on antibiotic resistance. Local individual treatment (e.g., udder injector, eye or ear drops) Parenteral individual treatment (intravenously, intramuscularly, subcutaneously) Oral individual treatment (i.e., tablets, oral bolus) Injectable group medication Oral group medication via drinking water/milk replacer Oral group medication via feed or premixes Source: Guidance for the rational use of antimicrobials (https://www.ava.com.au/siteassets/advocacy/gram-book—guidance-for-the-rational-use-of-antimicrobials.pdf) AMEG – EMA’s Antimicrobial Advice Ad Hoc Expert Group Report (https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/documents/report/categorisation-antibiotics-european-union-answer-request-european-commission-updating-scientific-advice-impact-public-health-and-animal-health-use-antibiotics-animals_en.pdf) OIE LIST OF ANTIMICROBIAL AGENTS OF VETERINARY IMPORTANCE (https://www.woah.org/app/uploads/2021/06/a-oie-list-antimicrobials-june2021.pdf)
Bioguard in the Wuxi International Conference Center
On November 1st, Bioguard Corporation Participated in the 4th Asian Small Animal Specialist Conference and the 2nd China International Exotic Pet Conference., which successfully concluded after three days of events at the Wuxi International Conference Center, the conference was a significant platform for learning and exchange among international veterinarians. It drew numerous domestic and international experts, scholars, and industry leaders in pet medicine. A total of 6,229 veterinarians participated, making it a significant event. Bioguard features several prominent speakers, including: – Dr. Luo Shengteng, the Director of Taipei Hongcheng Animal Hospital, is known as the “Cat Doctor.” – Dr. Lin Zhengyi, who participated via live interaction and distributed copies of his published works. – Dr. Dong Guangzhong, a veterinary parasitologist from National Chung Hsing University in Taiwan, hosted a signing event for his parasitology atlas. -Dr. Dieter Everaet, a specialist in exotic animals, gave an amazing lecture titled “Dental Disease in Rabbits and Rodents.”. Each expert shares unique insights into exotic pet care, enhancing the excitement and elevating the event’s atmosphere.
WHAT DOES “ANTIBIOTIC RANK” MEANS?
The use of antibiotics is critical to maintaining both human and animal health, ensuring food safety, and preventing the spread of zoonotic diseases. However, concerns about antibiotic resistance have prompted the need to rank veterinary antibiotics based on their importance, usage, and associated risks. This ranking or categorization serves as a tool to support veterinarians in making informed decisions about which antibiotics to use. The AMEG and AVA proposes to classify antibiotics in four different categories, which are: Category A (“Avoid”)/ Restricted: Antibiotic that is not authorized in veterinary medicine but authorized in human medicine in the EU. These drugs are vitally important to human health so should never be used in animals. Category B (“Restrict”)/ Tertiary/ 3rd line: Antibiotics that are of great importance to animal and human health especially for the treatment of multidrug resistant bacteria, and where resistance is more likely occur following use and/or is of great concern in veterinary and human healthcare. Category C (“Caution”)/ Secondary/ 2nd line: Antibiotics that are often broad-spectrum that are important for animal and human health and in which resistance is more likely to occur. For substances proposed for inclusion in this category, there are in general alternatives in human medicine in the EU but there are few alternative antibiotics in veterinary medicine for certain indications. Category D (“Prudence”)/ Primary/ 1st line: Antibiotics that are well established with good evidence of high efficacy and safety. Ideally, they should be narrow-spectrum. Source: Guidance for the rational use of antimicrobials (https://www.ava.com.au/siteassets/advocacy/gram-book—guidance-for-the-rational-use-of-antimicrobials.pdf) AMEG – EMA’s Antimicrobial Advice Ad Hoc Expert Group Report (https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/documents/report/categorisation-antibiotics-european-union-answer-request-european-commission-updating-scientific-advice-impact-public-health-and-animal-health-use-antibiotics-animals_en.pdf) OIE LIST OF ANTIMICROBIAL AGENTS OF VETERINARY IMPORTANCE (https://www.woah.org/app/uploads/2021/06/a-oie-list-antimicrobials-june2021.pdf)
Bioguard Office Relocation and Inauguration Ceremony
Bioguard relocated to its new office at the beginning of September and held a brand-new identity and office inauguration ceremony this October 4th, inviting distinguished guests from various fields to join the celebration. At the event, in addition to unveiling the new logo, guests also had the opportunity to tour the new office and the state-of-the-art Animal Disease Testing Center laboratory, the Bioguard Testing Center laboratory meets ISO17025 standards, ensuring the accuracy and impartiality of test results, providing veterinarians with reliable diagnostic support. We would like to express our gratitude to all the guests who attended today’s event and your presence has made Bioguard shine even brighter and in the future, Bioguard will continue to provide superior services and protect every animal through the power of biotechnology.
Understanding Antibiotic Classifications: A Comprehensive Guide
Antibiotics are essential tools in modern medicine, used to combat bacterial infections that could otherwise lead to severe health issues or even death. To use these powerful drugs effectively, it’s crucial to understand the different classifications of antibiotics, which are based on their chemical structure, mechanism of action, and spectrum of activity. This article explores the main classifications of antibiotics, providing an overview of their uses and how they work. Beta-Lactam Antibiotics Examples: Penicillins, Cephalosporins, Carbapenems, Monobactams Mechanism of Action: Beta-lactam antibiotics work by inhibiting the synthesis of bacterial cell walls. They target the penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs) that are crucial for forming peptidoglycan, a key component of the bacterial cell wall. By disrupting this process, beta-lactams weaken the bacterial cell wall, leading to cell lysis and death. Uses: These antibiotics are widely used to treat a variety of infections, including respiratory tract infections, urinary tract infections, skin infections, and more. Penicillins are often the first line of defense against many common bacterial infections. Macrolides Examples: Erythromycin, Azithromycin, Clarithromycin Mechanism of Action: Macrolides inhibit bacterial protein synthesis by binding to the 50S ribosomal subunit, preventing the translocation of peptides. This action effectively stops the bacteria from growing and multiplying. Uses: Macrolides are particularly useful for treating respiratory infections, such as pneumonia and bronchitis, as well as skin infections. They are also an alternative for patients allergic to penicillin. Tetracyclines Examples: Tetracycline, Doxycycline, Minocycline Mechanism of Action: Tetracyclines inhibit bacterial protein synthesis by binding to the 30S ribosomal subunit. This prevents the attachment of aminoacyl-tRNA to the mRNA-ribosome complex, thereby halting protein synthesis and bacterial growth. Uses: Tetracyclines are used to treat a variety of infections, including skin infections, respiratory tract infections, and urinary tract infections. Aminoglycosides Examples: Gentamicin, Amikacin, Tobramycin Mechanism of Action: Aminoglycosides bind to the 30S subunit of bacterial ribosomes, leading to the misreading of mRNA. This causes the bacteria to produce faulty proteins, ultimately leading to cell death. Uses: These antibiotics are often used to treat serious infections caused by Gram-negative bacteria, such as sepsis, endocarditis, and complicated urinary tract infections. Due to their potential for toxicity, they are usually reserved for severe infections. Fluoroquinolones Examples: Ciprofloxacin, Levofloxacin. Mechanism of Action: Fluoroquinolones inhibit bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV, enzymes critical for DNA replication and transcription. By disrupting these processes, fluoroquinolones prevent bacterial cell division and lead to cell death. Uses: Fluoroquinolones are used to treat a variety of infections, including respiratory tract infections, urinary tract infections, gastrointestinal infections, and skin infections. Sulfonamides Examples: Sulfamethoxazole, Sulfadiazine Mechanism of Action: Sulfonamides inhibit dihydropteroate synthase, an enzyme involved in folate synthesis in bacteria. Folate is necessary for DNA synthesis and cell division, so its inhibition leads to bacterial growth arrest. Uses: Sulfonamides are commonly used in combination with trimethoprim (e.g., as co-trimoxazole) to treat urinary tract infections, respiratory infections, and some types of diarrheas. Glycopeptides Examples: Vancomycin Mechanism of Action: Glycopeptides inhibit bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding to the D-alanyl-D-alanine termini of cell wall precursor units. This prevents the cross-linking of peptidoglycan chains, which is essential for bacterial cell wall strength and rigidity. Uses: Glycopeptides are used primarily to treat serious Gram-positive infections, especially those caused by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and other resistant organisms. Oxazolidinones Examples: Linezolid, Tedizolid Mechanism of Action: Oxazolidinones inhibit protein synthesis by binding to the 50S subunit of the bacterial ribosome, preventing the formation of a functional initiation complex for protein translation. Uses: Oxazolidinones are used to treat serious infections caused by Gram-positive bacteria, including MRSA and vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE).
September Free webinar : Fluid and Electrolyte Balance.
Join us for a Continuous Learning with Bioguard session: Fluid and Electrolyte Balance 🔵Date: September 26, 2024 🔵Time: 8PM – 9PM (GMT+8) Present in ENGLISH Please click on the link below for registration: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScHxeNGC00vzXBL2p5Ekd-zr5EwotWPL_3z-QHRBiVNQvrfKA/viewform 🔵ABOUT THE WEBINAR: Electrolyte balance is crucial in veterinary clinical pathology as it influences cellular function, fluid homeostasis, and overall health. Electrolytes such as sodium, potassium, calcium, and chloride are essential in maintaining osmotic balance, acid-base equilibrium, and neuromuscular excitability. Disruptions in electrolyte levels can manifest as various clinical conditions, including dehydration, renal dysfunction, and metabolic imbalances. Accurate assessment through serum or plasma electrolyte measurements helps diagnose underlying disorders and guide therapeutic interventions. Veterinary practitioners must adeptly interpret these findings to optimize patient care, ensuring the restoration and maintenance of electrolyte equilibrium for effective management of critical and chronic conditions. 🔴ABOUT THE SPEAKER: Dr. Lin got her D.V.M. degree from National Taiwan University and his Ph.D. from the College of Biological Science and Technology, National Chiao-Tung University. She is a professor in the Department of Veterinary Medicine and director of Zoonosis Research Center, National Taiwan University. In addition, she is a former director of the Animal Disease Diagnostic Center, National Taiwan University. Her specialties include Veterinary Clinical Microbiology, Immunology, and Animal Cancer Biology and Therapeutic Development.
Experience the difference of expert care and peace of mind using the Bioguard rapid test kit.
At Makati Dog and Cat Hospital and at Fil-Chinese Animal Clinic your pet’s health is their priority. In addition to initial tests on the patient’s condition, they also employ the #bioguard rapid test kit, enabling them to provide prompt and effective care. #bioguard is a Taiwan manufacturer of rapid test kits for companion and exotic animals and Some of the test kits available in the market are #cpv Ag, #CDV Ag, #fpv Ag, #FCoV Ag, and #FeLV Ag/#FIV Ab to name a few. Experience the difference of expert care and peace of mind using the #bioguard rapid test kit. Contact us or directly at: service@bioguard.com.tw , to learn more about #bioguard and the list of available #rapidtestkit in the Philippine market.
WE ARE MOVING
Exciting Announcement!! Starting Sep 1, 2024, Bioguard Corporation will be relocating to a new office space that boasts state-of-the-art facilities and a more comfortable work environment. The new space will better cater to our needs and ensure a great working environment for all of us. Please be assured that this address change will not affect any ongoing work. We’re truly grateful for your ongoing support and determined to serve you with greater efficiency Our new address will be: 6F, No.25, Wugong 5th Rd., Xinzhuang Dist., New Taipei City 248020, Taiwan
Get Ready for Bioguard new product Reveal at London Vet Show 2024!
Exciting Announcement!! Bioguard is exciting to announce our participation in the #LondonVetShow2024! Join us for an exclusive preview of our new product “new Antibiotic Susceptibility Test Analyzer”, designed to enhance animal healthcare. But First , Do you know what Antibiotic Susceptibility Testing is? Antibiotic Susceptibility Testing (AST) determines which antibiotics are most effective against bacterial infections in animals. It’s vital for choosing the right treatment. Please join Bioguard at the London Vet Show for a sneak peek of this New product and see how the process work. We can’t wait to share our latest advancements and connect with veterinary professionals. Date: November 14-15, 2024 Location: London Vet Show Stay tuned for more updates, and see you there!