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Bacteriophage Technology and Modern Medicine
Aa Haeruman Azam1, Xin-Ee Tan1, Srivani Veeranarayanan1
1Division of Bacteriology, Department of Infection and Immunity, School of Medicine, Jichi Medical University, Shimotsuke-shi 329-0498, Japan.
Antibiotics (Basel, Switzerland)
|August 27, 2021
Summary
Bacteriophage (phage) therapy is resurging due to rising antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Advances in phage engineering enhance their potential as antibacterial agents and for broader medical applications.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Biotechnology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Bacteriophages (phages) were an early antibacterial agent, largely replaced by antibiotics.
- The rise of antimicrobial-resistant (AMR) bacteria has renewed interest in phage therapy.
- Modern molecular biology and genetic engineering are advancing phage technology.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review progress in phage engineering technology.
- To highlight the applications of phage-based technology in modern medicine.
Main Methods:
- Review of recent advancements in phage engineering.
- Analysis of current applications of phage technology.
Main Results:
- Phage engineering has accelerated the development of potent antibacterial agents.
- Phage-based technologies show promise beyond antibacterial treatment, including antiviral and gene therapy applications.
Conclusions:
- Phage engineering is a rapidly advancing field with significant therapeutic potential.
- Phage technology offers promising alternative strategies for combating AMR bacteria and other medical challenges.
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