Science University Research Symposium (SURS)

Potential Correlations Between the Presence of Microplastics and Antibiotic Resistance in the Cumberland River

Publication Date

2026

College

College of Sciences & Mathematics

Department

Biology, Department of

SURS Faculty Advisor

Chris Barton; Matthew Heard

Presentation Type

Poster Presentation

Abstract

Antibiotic resistance is a growing environmental and public health concern, driven in part by the widespread use of antibiotics in medicine and agriculture. Major water sources like urban rivers are easily exposed to this runoff, putting them under threat of the emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Another growing concern for urban rivers is the presence of microplastics and their permanence within water sources. Aside from potentially affecting drinking water, the consequences of these nondegradable plastics may also influence the distribution of antibiotic-resistant bacteria by providing surfaces for bacterial colonization. In this study, we wanted to determine if there is a positive correlation between microplastics and antibiotic-resistant bacteria levels within the Cumberland River in Nashville, TN. To determine a relationship, water samples were collected from the Cumberland River from four sampling locations over a three-week period in Summer 2026. To quantify the presence and abundance of E. coli, the samples were processed via an IDEXX Colilert kit. We then took samples containing E. coli and conducted disc-diffusion assays to determine resistant levels of 7 types antibiotics. Our results did not show a positive correlation between microplastic levels and antibiotic resistance. However, further testing involving additional antibiotics, water samples obtained from the different locations, and variation across time could be beneficial in understanding whether microplastics are potential drivers of antibiotic resistance in urban rivers.

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