Using A Harmonised Study Design and Quantitative Toolbox Reveals Major Inconsistencies When Investigating the Main Drivers of Water and Biofilm Antibiotic Resistomes in Different Rivers
Recent Publication
This original research from KL's Department of Water Quality and Health shows that rivers play a significant role in the spread of antibiotic-resistant bacteria - a risk that could complicate the treatment of infections in the long term. The study shows that human wastewater, drug residues and environmental pollution contribute to the spread of this resistance. What is particularly alarming is that the spread of resistance varies depending on the river and environmental conditions. Improved wastewater treatment, more conscious use of antibiotics and stricter environmental regulations are needed to counteract this problem.
Leopold, M., Kolm, C., Linke, R. B., Schachner-Groehs, I., Koller, M., Kandler, W., Kittinger, C., Zarfel, G., Farnleitner, A. H., & Kirschner, A. K. T. (Accepted/In press). Using A Harmonised Study Design and Quantitative Toolbox Reveals Major Inconsistencies When Investigating the Main Drivers of Water and Biofilm Antibiotic Resistomes in Different Rivers. Journal of Hazardous Materials, 488, 137343. Article 137343. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jhazmat.2025.137343
Ass. Prof. DI Dr. Claudia Kolm Bakk
Scientific Staff (PostDoc)
Department of Water Quality and Health
Univ.-Prof. PD Dr. Andreas Farnleitner MSc
Head of
Department of Water Quality and Health
Assoc. Prof. PD Mag. Dr. Alexander Kirschner
Scientific Staff (Sen. PostDoc)
Department of Water Quality and Health