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Therapeutic potential of bacteriophage endolysins for infections caused by Gram-positive bacteria

He Liu1, Zhen Hu1, Mengyang Li2

  • 1Department of Microbiology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Key Laboratory of Microbial Engineering Under the Educational Committee in Chongqing, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China.

Journal of Biomedical Science
|April 26, 2023
PubMed

Insights

Endolysins, enzymes from bacteriophages, show promise as novel antibacterial agents against Gram-positive infections. Their low resistance potential offers a solution to multidrug-resistant bacteria.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Biotechnology
  • Infectious Diseases

Background:

  • Gram-positive bacterial infections pose a significant healthcare burden.
  • Rising multidrug-resistant strains like MRSA necessitate new antimicrobial strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review endolysins derived from phages targeting Gram-positive bacteria.
  • To summarize their mechanisms, efficacy, advantages, and potential as antibacterial drugs.

Main Methods:

  • Classification of endolysins based on structural characteristics.
  • Summary of published data on endolysin activity and safety.
  • Discussion of challenges and future development trends.

Main Results:

  • Endolysins specifically hydrolyze bacterial cell walls, leading to rapid bacterial death.
  • Low incidence of bacterial resistance to endolysins.
  • Phage endolysins demonstrate significant potential for treating Gram-positive infections.

Conclusions:

  • Endolysins are promising therapeutic agents against Gram-positive bacterial infections.
  • Despite limitations, ongoing development suggests future approval of endolysin-based drugs.
  • This review provides insights for researchers developing novel antibacterial biomaterials.
Keywords:
BacteriophageEndolysinsGram-positive bacteriaInfectious diseases

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