Survival, resistance, and fitness dynamics of <i>Escherichia coli</i> populations after prolonged exposure to copper.

ABSTRACT:

Background and objectives

Copper is an essential micronutrient and a widely used antimicrobial, yet its widespread application may accelerate microbial resistance. We investigated how long-term copper (II) sulfate (CuSO₄) exposure drives genetic and phenotypic changes in Escherichia coli, focusing on survival, resistance mechanisms, and antibiotic cross-resistance.

Methodology

Fifty E. coli populations were evolved for 55 days under progressively increasing CuSO₄ concentrations. Whole-genome sequencing (WGS) identified genetic adaptations, while phenotypic changes were assessed using minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and fitness assays across CuSO₄ and antibiotic gradients.

Results

CuSO₄ imposed strong selective pressure, with only 16% of population

SUBMITTER: Boyd-Vorsah S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12409786 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature