Diversity of phage infection types and associated terminology: the problem with 'Lytic or lysogenic'

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Virology
• Bacteriophage Research

Background:

• Bacteriophages (phages) are bacterial viruses crucial for microbial community structure.
• Phages are utilized in phage therapy for bacterial biocontrol, targeting pathogenic bacteria.
• Current phage classification often relies on the ambiguous term 'lytic or lysogenic'.

Purpose of the Study:

• To categorize bacteriophages based on their infection strategies.
• To review and suggest more accurate and distinguishing terminology for phage classification.
• To address the limitations of the 'lytic or lysogenic' dichotomy.

Main Methods:

• Categorization based on virion release (productive vs. lysogeny/pseudolysogeny/carrier state).
• Classification by virion release mechanism (lytic vs. chronic).
• Assessment of genetic capacity for lysogenic cycles (temperate vs. non-temperate).

Main Results:

• Phage infection strategies can be differentiated by virion release, release mechanism, and lysogenic cycle potential.
• The dichotomy of 'lytic or lysogenic' is considered insufficient and potentially misleading.
• Alternative, less ambiguous terminology is proposed for distinguishing phage types.

Conclusions:

• A refined classification system for bacteriophages is proposed.
• Clearer terminology will improve the understanding and application of phage biology.
• Accurate phage categorization is essential for effective phage therapy and microbial community modulation.