Phage therapy

Phage Therapy refers to the therapeutic use of bacteriophages, viruses that infect and replicate within bacteria, to treat bacterial, eubacterial, or archaeal infections. This treatment is an alternative to antibiotics, especially in cases where bacteria have developed resistance.

Background

Phage therapy is based on the discovery of bacteriophages, first identified in the early 20th century. It was initially used before the advent of antibiotics but regained interest due to the rising issue of antibiotic resistance.

Mechanism of Action

Bacteriophages target specific bacteria, making them effective in combating bacterial infections without harming the host's natural flora. They attach to bacterial cells and inject their genetic material, leading to the replication of the phage and destruction of the bacterial cell.

Illustration of a bacteriophage attacking a bacterial cell.

Types of Phages in Therapy

Phage therapy can involve:

• Lytic phages: Which cause the immediate lysis and death of the bacterial cell.
• Temperate phages: Which can incorporate their DNA into the host cell and remain dormant.

Clinical Applications

Phage therapy has potential in various clinical settings, including:

• Treating antibiotic-resistant infections.
• Addressing infections in wounds or burns.
• Treating gastrointestinal infections caused by bacteria.

Advantages of Phage Therapy

The advantages include:

• Specificity to target bacteria, reducing impact on beneficial microbes.
• Ability to evolve alongside bacteria, potentially reducing resistance development.
• Efficacy against antibiotic-resistant strains.

Challenges and Limitations

Challenges in phage therapy include:

• Regulatory hurdles and lack of standardized protocols.
• Potential for bacterial resistance to phages.
• Limited knowledge about long-term effects.

Research and Development

Ongoing research in phage therapy focuses on identifying new phages, understanding phage-bacteria interactions, and developing effective phage cocktails.

Regulatory and Ethical Considerations

Regulatory frameworks are evolving to address the safe and ethical use of phage therapy, with a focus on clinical trials and safety evaluations.

See Also

• Microbiology
• Infectious diseases
• Antibiotic resistance

External Links

• American Society for Microbiology - Bacteriophage Therapy 101
• Phages for Global Health

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