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Towards promising antimicrobial alternatives: The future of bacteriophage research and development in Saudi Arabia

Ahlam Alsaadi1, Mohammed Imam2, Abdulrahman A Alghamdi1

  • 1Infectious Diseases Research Department, King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Journal of Infection and Public Health
|November 4, 2022
PubMed

Insights

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a global threat. Bacteriophage research, a promising alternative to antibiotics, is underdeveloped in the Middle East, including Saudi Arabia, hindering the fight against resistant infections.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Biotechnology
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a significant global health and economic threat, driven by antibiotic misuse.
  • Multi-drug resistant (MDR) pathogens present critical treatment challenges with high mortality and morbidity rates.
  • Bacteriophages (phages) offer a promising alternative to traditional antibiotics for combating resistant bacterial infections.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To highlight the importance of bacteriophage research and development in addressing the AMR crisis.
  • To discuss the potential implementation of phage-based therapies in Saudi Arabia and the Middle East.
  • To address the current paucity of phage research in the Middle East compared to global efforts.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review on bacteriophage applications and AMR.
  • Analysis of the current state of phage research in the Middle East, specifically Saudi Arabia.
  • Discussion of potential strategies for implementing phage-based therapies.

Main Results:

  • Phage research and development are crucial for combating antibiotic-resistant pathogens.
  • The Middle East, including Saudi Arabia, significantly lags in phage research compared to Europe and the US.
  • There is a need for enhanced research programs and biotechnology tools for alternative antimicrobial approaches.

Conclusions:

  • Bacteriophage therapy represents a vital strategy to combat the escalating threat of AMR.
  • Increased investment and collaborative efforts are needed to advance phage research in Saudi Arabia.
  • Implementing phage-based therapies can significantly improve the management of infections caused by antibiotic-resistant pathogens in the region.
Keywords:
AntibioticsAntimicrobial resistance (AMR)BacteriophagesPhage therapySaudi Arabia

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