Insights into the novel Enterococcus faecalis phage: A comprehensive genome analysis.

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Genomics
• Bacteriophage Therapy

Background:

• Enterococcus faecalis presents a significant clinical challenge due to widespread antibiotic resistance.
• Novel therapeutic strategies are urgently needed to combat infections caused by resistant strains.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the potential of bacteriophage therapy against antibiotic-resistant Enterococcus faecalis.
• To perform comprehensive genomic analysis of bacteriophage SAM-E.f 12.

Main Methods:

• Whole-genome sequencing of bacteriophage SAM-E.f 12 using Illumina technology.
• Bioinformatics analyses for gene prediction and functional annotation.
• Host range determination, stability assays, and efficacy testing in murine wound models.

Main Results:

• Bacteriophage SAM-E.f 12, a Siphoviridae family member, demonstrated a burst size of 5.7 PFU/infected cells and a latent period of 20 min.
• SAM-E.f 12 showed efficacy against clinical E. faecalis strains and resilience in diverse conditions.
• The phage was effective in a murine wound model, highlighting its therapeutic potential.

Conclusions:

• Bacteriophage SAM-E.f 12 is a promising candidate for phage therapy against antibiotic-resistant E. faecalis.
• Genomic characterization and lytic parameters support its application as a precise therapeutic agent.
• This research contributes to developing effective phage therapies for challenging E. faecalis infections.