Does Non-Genetic Heterogeneity Facilitate the Development of Genetic Drug Resistance?

TL;DR

This paper explores how non-genetic heterogeneity, such as gene expression variability and epigenetic modifications, may facilitate the development of genetic drug resistance in microbes, impacting treatment outcomes.

Contribution

It provides a conceptual framework for understanding the interplay between non-genetic and genetic resistance mechanisms during antimicrobial treatment.

Findings

Cell-to-cell variability influences resistance development

Non-genetic mechanisms can precede genetic resistance

Interplay affects microbial adaptation and evolution

Abstract

Non-genetic forms of antimicrobial drug resistance can result from cell-to-cell variability that is not encoded in the genetic material. Data from recent studies also suggest that non-genetic mechanisms can facilitate the development of genetic drug resistance. In this Perspective article, we speculate on how the interplay between non-genetic and genetic mechanisms may affect microbial adaptation and evolution during drug treatment. We argue that cellular heterogeneity arising from fluctuations in gene expression, epigenetic modifications, as well as genetic changes contributes to drug resistance at different timescales, and that the interplay between these mechanisms may influence the evolutionary dynamics of pathogen resistance. Accordingly, developing a better understanding of non-genetic mechanisms in drug resistance and how they interact with genetic mechanisms will enhance our ability to combat antimicrobial resistance.