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Phage therapy: From biological mechanisms to future directions
Steffanie A Strathdee1, Graham F Hatfull2, Vivek K Mutalik3
1Center for Innovative Phage Applications and Therapeutics, Division of Infectious Disease and Global Public Health, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093-0507, USA.
Cell
|January 7, 2023
Summary
Bacteriophage (phage) therapy, using natural bacterial predators, is gaining traction due to rising antimicrobial resistance. This review covers phage mechanisms, applications, and challenges for effective therapeutic development.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Biotechnology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Rising antimicrobial resistance necessitates novel therapeutic strategies.
- Bacteriophages (phages), natural bacterial predators, offer a promising alternative to antibiotics.
- Phage therapy requires careful consideration of lytic activity, host specificity, and safety.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current state of bacteriophage therapy.
- To discuss biological mechanisms, clinical applications, and challenges.
- To explore future directions for therapeutic phage development.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature review of bacteriophage research.
- Analysis of biological mechanisms of phage-bacterial interactions.
- Examination of clinical data and regulatory considerations.
Main Results:
- Phages demonstrate potent lytic activity against specific bacterial hosts.
- Successful clinical applications highlight phage therapy's potential.
- Challenges include characterization, delivery, and regulatory hurdles.
Conclusions:
- Phage therapy is a viable strategy to combat antimicrobial resistance.
- Further research and development are crucial for widespread clinical adoption.
- Collaborative efforts are essential for advancing therapeutic phage applications.
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