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Two Newly Isolated Enterobacter-Specific Bacteriophages: Biological Properties and Stability Studies
Martyna Cieślik1, Marek Harhala2, Filip Orwat1
1Bacteriophage Laboratory, Department of Phage Therapy, Hirszfeld Institute of Immunology and Experimental Therapy, Polish Academy of Sciences, 53-114 Wrocław, Poland.
Viruses
|July 27, 2022
Summary
Two novel myoviruses, Entb_43 and Entb_45, show lytic activity against multidrug-resistant Enterobacter species, offering a promising phage therapy solution for urinary tract infections.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Virology
- Genomics
Background:
- The rise of antimicrobial resistance necessitates alternative treatments for bacterial infections.
- Recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs) pose a significant public health challenge.
- Bacteriophages represent a potential therapeutic strategy against multidrug-resistant bacteria.
Purpose of the Study:
- To isolate and characterize novel bacteriophages with lytic activity against multidrug-resistant Enterobacter species.
- To evaluate the therapeutic potential of these phages for UTIs.
Main Methods:
- Isolation and characterization of two myoviruses (Entb_43 and Entb_45).
- Genomic analysis and classification of the isolated phages.
- Determination of phage lytic spectra and optimal multiplicity of infection (MOI).
- Assessment of phage stability under various storage conditions and in the presence of nanoparticles and disinfectants.
Main Results:
- Both phages demonstrated lytic activity against clinical isolates of Enterobacter cloacae, Enterobacter hormaechei, and Enterobacter kobei.
- Phages were classified within the Tevenvirinae subfamily (Karamvirus and Kanagawavirus).
- Optimal MOI for phage amplification and lytic activity were determined.
- Phages showed stability during long-term storage at low temperatures and retained activity after incubation with silver and copper nanoparticles.
- Phage activity was reduced by certain disinfectants but maintained in urine samples.
Conclusions:
- The isolated myoviruses Entb_43 and Entb_45 are promising candidates for phage therapy against multidrug-resistant Enterobacter infections, particularly UTIs.
- Their stability and compatibility with certain nanoparticles suggest potential for synergistic therapeutic applications.
- Further research is warranted to explore their efficacy and safety in clinical settings.
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