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Antibiotics
Special Issues
Livestock Antibiotic Use and Resistance
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Livestock Antibiotic Use and Resistance

A special issue of Antibiotics (ISSN 2079-6382). This special issue belongs to the section "Antibiotics in Animal Health".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 15 February 2026 | Viewed by 6984

Special Issue Editors

Dr. Valentina Monistero

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Guest Editor
Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences—DIVAS, University of Milan, Lodi, Italy
Interests: milk quality; bovine mastitis; diagnostic microbiology; molecular biology
Dr. Paola Cremonesi

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Guest Editor
Institute of Agricultural Biology and Biotechnology—IBBA-CNR, National Research Council, Lodi, Italy
Interests: milk quality; bovine mastitis; antimicrobial resistance; virulence; molecular biology
Dr. Gloria Gioia

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Guest Editor
Animal Health Diagnostic Center, Bacteriology Lab/QMPS Program, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
Interests: veterinary infectious diseases; bovine mastitis; one health; milk quality; diagnostic molecular microbiology
Dr. Valerio Bronzo

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences—DIVAS, University of Milan, Lodi, Italy
Interests: milking management; milk quality; bovine mastitis; laboratory diagnostics

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

On behalf of the Guest Editor team, with the support of Prof. Valerio Bronzo, Dr. Paola Cremonesi, and Dr. Gloria Gioia, we invite you to contribute a manuscript to the Special Issue on Livestock Antibiotic Use and Resistance published by the Antibiotics journal. Given your expertise, we would like you to submit a paper that could deepen our knowledge of farm antibiotic use and provide further insights into resistance emergence.

Antimicrobial resistance is currently considered as the most serious threat to public health. Microorganisms have acquired a long-term ability to overcome drug effects, and any antimicrobial usage is associated with the chance of no longer responding to therapy. Over several decades, essential drugs in human medicine were largely employed to control the bacterial spread and treat diseases in food-producing animals. Consequently, bacteria have developed resistance and become increasingly difficult to cure, with important implications for animal and human health.

Your contribution to this Special Issue would be extremely valuable based on your research interests. Facing the biggest challenge of modern livestock production, a more comprehensive understanding of this phenomenon could provide new approaches to deal with the overall resistance problem.

Dr. Valentina Monistero
Dr. Paola Cremonesi
Dr. Gloria Gioia
Dr. Valerio Bronzo
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Antibiotics is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2900 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • farm
  • livestock
  • antibiotic
  • antimicrobial resistance
  • One Health
  • multidrug-resistant
  • methicillin-resistant
  • extended-spectrum beta-lactamase
  • carbapenemase
  • superbug

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Published Papers (7 papers)

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Research

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14 pages, 1400 KiB  
Article
From Farm to Slaughter: Tracing Antimicrobial Resistance in a Poultry Short Food Chain
by Andrea Laconi, Roberta Tolosi, Claudia Chirollo, Cristiana Penon, Giacomo Berto, Francesco Galuppo and Alessandra Piccirillo
Antibiotics 2025, 14(6), 604; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics14060604 - 13 Jun 2025
Viewed by 605
Abstract
Background: Short food supply chains are commonly perceived as more sustainable and safer alternatives to conventional production systems, often linked to organic, free-range livestock practices. Materials and methods: This study investigates, for the first time, the distribution of antimicrobial resistance genes [...] Read more.
Background: Short food supply chains are commonly perceived as more sustainable and safer alternatives to conventional production systems, often linked to organic, free-range livestock practices. Materials and methods: This study investigates, for the first time, the distribution of antimicrobial resistance genes (ARGs) and characterizes the microbial communities’ composition, using 16S rRNA sequencing and real-time PCR, respectively. Eleven fecal, 76 slaughterhouse surface, 11 cecal, and 11 carcass samples, from 11 poultry farms belonging to the same short food chain, were analyzed in the study. Results: While cleaning and disinfection procedures appeared to reduce the bacterial load on slaughterhouse surfaces, diverse and potentially resistant bacteria, including genera such as Staphylococcus and Streptococcus, persisted both before and after slaughter. ARGs conferring resistance to high-priority critically important antimicrobials (HPCIAs), such as fluoroquinolones and third-generation cephalosporins, were frequently detected on carcasses, with qnrS (76.15%, 95%CI 68.02-84.28%) and blaCMY2 (57.8%, 95%CI 48.38-67.22%) being the most prevalent. The slaughtering process emerged as a critical step for ARG dissemination via intestinal bacteria, such as genus Lactobacillus. Additionally, the detection of mcr genes and blaNDM on carcasses but not in the bird gut samples suggests possible anthropogenic contamination. Discussion: These findings highlight that the evisceration process, slaughterhouse environment, and personnel are all contributing factors in ARG spread and underscore the need for enhanced hygiene protocols and reduced gut ARG carriage in domestic birds to mitigate the risk for the consumer. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Livestock Antibiotic Use and Resistance)
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14 pages, 496 KiB  
Article
Prevalence, Antimicrobial Resistance Patterns, and Emerging Carbapenemase-Producing Enterococcus Species from Different Sources in Lagos, Nigeria
by Wasiu Olawale Salami, Samuel Oluwasegun Ajoseh, Aminat Olajumoke Lawal-Sanni, Ashraf A. Abd El Tawab, Heinrich Neubauer, Gamal Wareth and Kabiru Olusegun Akinyemi
Antibiotics 2025, 14(4), 398; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics14040398 - 12 Apr 2025
Viewed by 1036
Abstract
Background: Enterococcus species present significant health risks due to their widespread presence in humans, animals, and the environment. This study examined the patterns of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and the presence of carbapenemase-producing Enterococcus species from various sources. Methods: Between November 2023 [...] Read more.
Background: Enterococcus species present significant health risks due to their widespread presence in humans, animals, and the environment. This study examined the patterns of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and the presence of carbapenemase-producing Enterococcus species from various sources. Methods: Between November 2023 and February 2024, 500 samples were collected in Lagos State, including 350 clinical human samples, 50 environmental samples, and 100 animal samples. The samples were processed, and Enterococcus isolates were identified and subjected to antimicrobial susceptibility tests (AST) by standard methods. Furthermore, carbapenemase (blaKPC and oxa-48) and virulence genes (gelE) were detected by real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) methods using specific primers. Results: The overall prevalence of Enterococcus isolates was 4.6% (23/500), including 18 E. faecalis and 5 E. faecium. The source prevalence was 24% (12/50) from the environmental samples, 5% (5/100) from animal sources, and 1.7% (6/350) from the clinical samples. All Enterococcus isolates were 100% resistant to ciprofloxacin, erythromycin, imipenem, vancomycin, and ampicillin. However, 91% were susceptible to gentamicin. Six (6) distinct resistance profiles were observed, with the pattern AMP-ERY-TGC-CIP-TS-VA-CHL-AUG-MEM-IMI being the most frequent in 12 E. faecalis (4 isolates from humans, 2 from animals, and 6 from the environment). Notably, 39.1% (9/23) of multiple-drug resistant Enterococcus isolates harbored the gelE virulence gene, including seven E. faecalis (five environmental and two human) and two E. faecium from animal sources. The E. faecalis strains HB003 and HB050, from human bacteremia cases carrying gelE, were the first in Nigeria to produce blaKPC and oxa-48 carbapenemase genes. Conclusions: This study revealed the emergence of carbapenemase-producing Enterococcus species in our environment. A one-health approach and further molecular studies are essential to mitigate the spread and understand the transmission dynamics. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Livestock Antibiotic Use and Resistance)
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20 pages, 2315 KiB  
Article
Prevalence of Variant GTRIStaphylococcus aureus Isolated from Dairy Cow Milk Samples in the Alpine Grazing System of the Aosta Valley and Its Association with AMR and Virulence Profiles
by Valentina Monistero, Delower Hossain, Sara Fusar Poli, Elizabeth Sampaio de Medeiros, Paola Cremonesi, Bianca Castiglioni, Filippo Biscarini, Hans Ulrich Graber, Giulia Mochettaz, Sandra Ganio, Alessandra Gazzola, Maria Filippa Addis, Claudio Roullet, Antonio Barberio, Silvia Deotto, Lara Biasio, Fernando Ulloa, Davide Galanti, Valerio Bronzo and Paolo Moroni
Antibiotics 2025, 14(4), 348; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics14040348 - 27 Mar 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 848
Abstract
Background/Objectives: In the Aosta Valley, the alpine grazing system integrates livestock production and land management. Valdostana breeding has adapted to this mountainous region, but the spread of Staphylococcus aureus within pastures may impact animal health. The aim of this study was to [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: In the Aosta Valley, the alpine grazing system integrates livestock production and land management. Valdostana breeding has adapted to this mountainous region, but the spread of Staphylococcus aureus within pastures may impact animal health. The aim of this study was to provide an overview of S. aureus genotypes associated with antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and virulence profiles in four dairy herds in the Aosta Valley from July 2022 to August 2023. Methods: A total of 468 composite milk samples were collected at three timepoints: T1 (pasture-livestock system), T2 (farm-livestock system), and T3 (pasture-livestock system). S. aureus isolates were characterized by antimicrobial susceptibility testing, ribosomal spacer (RS)-PCR, multilocus sequence typing (MLST), PCR analysis for 28 virulence genes and 6 AMR genes, and adlb-targeted real-time PCR. Results: RS-PCR analysis of 82 S. aureus strains revealed 12 genotypes (GT) in eight clusters (CL). The most prevalent variant was GTRI (61%), followed by GTB (15%). Resistance to penicillin was high (69%), with CLR strains showing 88% resistance, and 51% resistance to amoxicillin plus clavulanate. All strains were susceptible to cephalosporins and oxacillin. Macrolide resistance was low (4%), and multi-drug resistance was 6%. AMR gene presence corresponded with susceptibility, with blaZ detected in 94% of CLR strains. CLR strains also possessed genes for biofilm formation and virulence factors. Conclusions: This study highlights the presence of AMR and virulence factors in S. aureus strains from alpine grazing systems, underscoring the need for ongoing monitoring to mitigate risks to animal health. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Livestock Antibiotic Use and Resistance)
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14 pages, 888 KiB  
Article
Beef Cattle Farmers’ Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Toward On-Farm Biosecurity, Antimicrobial Use, and Antimicrobial Resistance in Illinois, United States of America
by Rima Shrestha, Mohammad Nasim Sohail and Csaba Varga
Antibiotics 2025, 14(3), 282; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics14030282 - 9 Mar 2025
Viewed by 1353
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Understanding beef cattle farmers’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices on infectious disease prevention, antimicrobial use, and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is important to developing stewardship programs. Methods: A cross-sectional stratified mail or phone survey of beef cattle producers in Illinois was conducted [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Understanding beef cattle farmers’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices on infectious disease prevention, antimicrobial use, and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is important to developing stewardship programs. Methods: A cross-sectional stratified mail or phone survey of beef cattle producers in Illinois was conducted between June and August 2022. Ordinal logistic regression models assessed the impact of having a biosecurity plan on beef cattle farmers’ familiarity with cattle diseases. Logistic regression models evaluated associations between antimicrobial treatment practices and the type of cattle operations. Results: A total of 514 producers responded to all or some of the questions. Only 45% of producers were familiar with AMR, and 11% were concerned about cattle infections with antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Producers agreed or strongly agreed (64%) that inappropriate AMU contributes to the development of AMR. Most producers (70%) thought that antimicrobials were as effective in treating infectious diseases as 5 years ago. Only 50% of farms were visited by a veterinarian in the previous year and 35% had their biosecurity evaluated. Producers were more familiar with infectious diseases if their farm biosecurity was assessed. Treating respiratory infections was the most common reason for antimicrobial use. Compared to cow–calf farmers, whole-cycle farmers had a higher probability of having their farm’s biosecurity evaluated (OR = 1.66) and having a veterinarian visit in the previous year (OR = 2.16). Whole-cycle (OR = 3.92) and stocker/backgrounder (OR = 2.18) farmers had a higher probability of treating their cattle with antibiotics than cow–calf farmers. Conclusions: Antimicrobial stewardship and farm biosecurity programs are needed to raise awareness of disease prevention, AMU, and AMR among Illinois beef cattle producers. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Livestock Antibiotic Use and Resistance)
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Review

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18 pages, 272 KiB  
Review
Livestock Antibiotics Use and Antimicrobial Resistance
by Elliot Enshaie, Sankalp Nigam, Shaan Patel and Vikrant Rai
Antibiotics 2025, 14(6), 621; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics14060621 - 19 Jun 2025
Viewed by 808
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Antibiotic resistance or antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in livestock is a growing global concern that threatens both human and animal health. The overuse and misuse of antibiotics in livestock production have led to an increased propensity for the development of AMR bacterial [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Antibiotic resistance or antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in livestock is a growing global concern that threatens both human and animal health. The overuse and misuse of antibiotics in livestock production have led to an increased propensity for the development of AMR bacterial strains in animals, which can be spread to humans through the consumption of contaminated animal products, direct contact, or environmental exposure. This review aims to summarize the development and transmission of AMR in livestock, explore its underlying mechanisms and impact on human and animal health, and discuss current practices and potential strategies for mitigation and prevention. Methods: For this narrative review, we searched articles on PubMed and Google Scholar using the terms antibiotic resistance, livestock, and environment, alone or in combination. Results: The history of antibiotic use in livestock and its link to increased AMR, along with the involved mechanisms, including the enzymatic breakdown of antibiotics, alterations in bacterial targets, horizontal gene transfer, and efflux pumps, are important. Antibiotics in livestock are used for growth promotion, disease prevention and control, and metaphylactic use. The role of livestock and the environment as reservoirs for resistant pathogens, their impact on human health, chronic infections, allergic reactions, toxicity, and the development of untreatable diseases is important to understand AMR. Conclusions: Given the widespread use of antibiotics and the potential consequences of AMR, collaborative global efforts, increased public awareness, coordinated regulations, and advancements in biological technology are required to mitigate the threat AMR poses to human and animal health. Regulatory solutions and the development of new therapeutic alternatives like antimicrobial peptides and bacteriophage therapy, and preventive measures such as DNA and mRNA vaccines, are future perspectives. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Livestock Antibiotic Use and Resistance)
30 pages, 2650 KiB  
Review
The Role of Livestock Antibiotic Use in Microbiota Dysbiosis and Neuroinflammation
by Serena Silvestro, Carmelo Biondo, Angelina Midiri, Borrello Lucia and Giuseppe Mancuso
Antibiotics 2025, 14(6), 608; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics14060608 - 15 Jun 2025
Viewed by 536
Abstract
Antibiotic overuse in livestock is a major concern, as it contributes to the emergence of antibiotic resistance and may adversely affect both animal and human health. One important consequence is its impact on the gut microbiota, a complex microbial ecosystem essential for maintaining [...] Read more.
Antibiotic overuse in livestock is a major concern, as it contributes to the emergence of antibiotic resistance and may adversely affect both animal and human health. One important consequence is its impact on the gut microbiota, a complex microbial ecosystem essential for maintaining host health. A growing body of research highlights the critical role of a balanced gut microbiota in maintaining the integrity of the gut-microbiota–brain axis, a bidirectional communication network between the gastrointestinal tract and the central nervous system (CNS). Antibiotics introduced through the food chain and the environment can disrupt microbial balance, leading to dysbiosis and systemic inflammation. In this context, the concept of “One Health” is emphasized, which recognizes the deep interconnection between the health of humans, animals, and the environment to address the global problem of antibiotic resistance. Several animal studies highlight how dysbiosis can induce neuroinflammation and potentially damage the gut–brain barrier. This review explores the mechanisms by which antibiotic use in livestock alters the gut microbiota and compromises the gut-microbiota–brain axis integrity, outlining the implications for public health and the possible link with neurodegenerative conditions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Livestock Antibiotic Use and Resistance)
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33 pages, 1374 KiB  
Review
Antimicrobials in Livestock Farming and Resistance: Public Health Implications
by Marilena Trinchera, Silvia De Gaetano, Elenoire Sole, Angelina Midiri, Serena Silvestro, Giuseppe Mancuso, Teresa Catalano and Carmelo Biondo
Antibiotics 2025, 14(6), 606; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics14060606 - 14 Jun 2025
Viewed by 993
Abstract
The accelerated spread of bacterial resistance has been demonstrated to reduce the effectiveness of antibiotic treatments for infections, resulting in higher morbidity and mortality rates, as well as increased costs for livestock producers. It is expected that the majority of future antimicrobial use [...] Read more.
The accelerated spread of bacterial resistance has been demonstrated to reduce the effectiveness of antibiotic treatments for infections, resulting in higher morbidity and mortality rates, as well as increased costs for livestock producers. It is expected that the majority of future antimicrobial use will be in animal production. The management of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in the livestock sector poses significant challenges due to the multifaceted nature of the problem. In order to identify appropriate solutions to the rise of antimicrobial resistance, it is imperative that we have a comprehensive understanding of the disease dynamics underpinning the ways in which antimicrobial resistance is transmitted between humans and animals. Furthermore, in consideration of the anticipated requirement to satisfy the global demand for food, it is imperative that we guarantee that resistance is not transmitted or propagated during the treatment and disposal of animal waste, particularly from intensive farming. It is also crucial to formulate a research agenda to investigate how antibiotic resistance in animal faeces from livestock farming is affected by intensified farming activities. The review analyses the environment’s role in the transmission resistance chain and reviews methodologies for disrupting the link. A particular focus is placed on the limitations of the applied methodologies to reduce antimicrobial resistance in global animal production. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Livestock Antibiotic Use and Resistance)
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