Bacterial memory in antibiotic resistance evolution and nanotechnology in evolutionary biology

Abstract

Summary: Bacterial memory refers to the phenomenon in which past experiences influence current behaviors in response to changing environments. It serves as a crucial process that enables adaptation and evolution. We first summarize the state-of-art approaches regarding history-dependent behaviors that impact growth dynamics and underlying mechanisms. Then, the phenotypic and genotypic origins of memory and how encoded memory modulates drug tolerance/resistance are reviewed. We also provide a summary of possible memory effects induced by antimicrobial nanoparticles. The regulatory networks and genetic underpinnings responsible for memory building partially overlap with nanoparticle and drug exposures, which may raise concerns about the impact of nanotechnology on adaptation. Finally, we provide a perspective on the use of nanotechnology to harness bacterial memory based on its unique mode of actions on information processing and transmission in bacteria. Exploring bacterial memory mechanisms provides valuable insights into acclimation, evolution, and the potential applications of nanotechnology in harnessing memory.

Keywords

• Toxicology
• Microbiology
• Nanomaterials