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HealthScience/Technology
antibiotic-resistant genes in recycled wastewater
As water shortages continue to increase, researchers are searching for ways to improve wastewater recycling. (Photo/Daria Shevtsova, Pexels)

Antibiotic-resistant genes are well removed by purification used to recycle wastewater but final quality is influenced by environmental factors

A team led by USC Viterbi’s Adam Smith has found that purified water returned to Southern California aquifers for storage and reuse blends with antibiotic-resistant bacteria already found in the aquifer.