Bacteriophage Endolysin: A Powerful Weapon to Control Bacterial Biofilms

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Biotechnology

Background:

• Bacterial biofilms present significant clinical and environmental challenges due to high resistance to antibiotics and host immune defenses.
• The rise of antimicrobial resistance necessitates the development of novel therapeutic agents.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the efficacy of phage endolysins, modified variants, and combinations against bacterial biofilms.
• To explore the potential applications of endolysins in combating biofilm-related infections.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on phage endolysins and their effects on bacterial biofilms.
• Analysis of in vitro and in vivo studies demonstrating bactericidal activity.
• Examination of genetic engineering strategies for enhanced endolysin function.

Main Results:

• Phage endolysins exhibit specific and efficient hydrolysis of bacterial cell walls, leading to bacterial lysis.
• Endolysins demonstrate potent bactericidal effects in vitro and in vivo with no reported human toxicity.
• Genetically engineered endolysins show enhanced activity, particularly when combined with other antimicrobial agents.

Conclusions:

• Phage endolysins are highly promising for the prevention and treatment of bacterial infections, especially those involving biofilms.
• Their specific mechanism of action and safety profile make them valuable alternatives to traditional antibiotics.
• Endolysins represent a powerful strategy for controlling problematic bacterial biofilms.