resisten

Resisten is a term used in several disciplines to describe the capacity of a system to withstand an external stressor, such as a chemical, a biological agent, environmental conditions, or social pressure. It is not a standardized English term; common equivalents are resistance or resistant. In German, related forms include Resistenz (singular) and Resistenzen (plural).

In biology and medicine, resistance refers to an organism’s ability to survive exposure to antimicrobial agents. Mechanisms include enzymatic drug inactivation, target modification, active efflux, and reduced permeability. Resistance can be intrinsic or acquired and may spread by horizontal gene transfer. Notable examples include MRSA and multidrug-resistant Enterobacteriaceae; mitigation relies on surveillance, stewardship, and drug development.

In agriculture and ecology, resistance describes crops and wildlife that withstand pests, pathogens, or herbicides. Plant resistance is often conferred by resistance genes that detect pathogen effectors. Pests can adapt, so durable resistance combines genetics with management practices and crop diversity.

In materials science and engineering, resistance denotes a material’s opposition to current flow (electrical resistance) or its ability to resist wear, corrosion, or high temperatures. Resistance is measured in ohms for electrical systems and by standardized tests for material performance. Coatings and alloying are common ways to improve resistance.

In social sciences and technology studies, resistance can mean opposition to change or authority, and defensive behaviors in organizations. In cybersecurity and networks, defensive measures aim to withstand attacks and maintain function.