Characterization of a Coliphage AS1 isolated from sewage effluent in Pakistan

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Bacteriophage research
• Wastewater treatment

Background:

• Rising threat of multi-drug resistant (MDR) bacterial strains necessitates novel therapeutic strategies.
• Bacteriophages are being explored as a viable alternative to conventional antibiotic therapy.
• Sewage effluent is a potential source for isolating effective bacteriophages.

Purpose of the Study:

• To isolate and characterize lytic bacteriophages from sewage effluent.
• To evaluate the efficacy of isolated bacteriophages against specific bacterial strains.
• To determine the stability of bacteriophages under varying environmental conditions.

Main Methods:

• Isolation of bacteriophage AS1 from sewage effluent targeting E.coli S2.
• Determination of phage titer and lytic activity spectrum.
• Assessment of phage stability across a range of temperatures and pH levels.

Main Results:

• Bacteriophage AS1 was successfully isolated and demonstrated monovalent lytic activity against E.coli S2.
• The phage titer was determined to be 3.5×10^9 plaque-forming units/ml.
• Phage AS1 exhibited stability at temperatures up to 60°C and pH 5.0-11.0, with optimal stability at 37°C and pH 7.0.

Conclusions:

• Wastewater serves as a rich source for isolating bacteriophages effective against MDR bacteria.
• Bacteriophage AS1 shows potential as a specific lytic agent for E.coli S2.
• The stability profile of bacteriophage AS1 suggests its viability for therapeutic applications.