Resistance mechanisms of bacteria to antimicrobial compounds

Resistance has been defined as the temporary or permanent ability of an organism and its progeny to remain viable and/or multiply under conditions that would destroy or inhibit other members of the strain. Bacteria may be defined as resistant when they are not susceptible to a concentration of antibacterial agent used in practice. Traditionally, resistance refers to instances where the basis of increased tolerance is a genetic change, and where the biochemical basis is known. Whereas the basis of bacterial resistance to antibiotics is well known, that of resistance to antiseptics, disinfectants and food preservatives is less well understood. Resistance of biofilm microorganisms has serious economic and environmental implications in many applications like cooling water, papermaking, medical implants, drinking-water distribution, secondary oil recovery,