[Basic knowledge of phages and their therapeutic application]

Area of Science:

• Microbiology and Virology
• Infectious Diseases
• Biotechnology

Context:

• Phages (bacteriophages) are ubiquitous viruses crucial to microbial ecosystems.
• They are investigated as potential alternatives or supplements to antibiotics for treating bacterial infections.
• Phage therapy is gaining traction, but regulatory and standardization challenges remain.

Purpose:

• To provide a comprehensive overview of phage biology, from classical knowledge to current research.
• To elucidate phage mechanisms, including host interaction, lysis, and visualization methods.
• To discuss the role of phages in the human microbiome and their therapeutic potential.

Summary:

• This article reviews fundamental phage biology, including mechanisms of action, host interactions, and visualization techniques.
• It covers temperate phages, newly discovered CrAss and Lak megaphages, and discusses phage defense, resistance, and synergistic effects with antibiotics.
• The potential of phages as therapeutic agents, their role in immune defense, and the need for harmonized standards in phage preparations are highlighted.

Impact:

• Phages offer a promising avenue for combating bacterial infections, potentially enhancing antibiotic efficacy.
• Understanding phage biology is essential for developing effective phage-based therapies.
• Standardized quality control is critical for the successful clinical application and regulatory approval of phage preparations.