Bacteriophage endolysins

In the last phase of their life cycle, bacteriophages form lytic enzymes known as bacteriophage endolysins that destroy the bacterial cell wall and liberate new virions. Endolysins have emerged as high-scope antimicrobial agents, especially against Gram-positive infections, due to their specificity, rapid action, and ability to target essential cell wall components. Because bacterial resistance to endolysins continues to be rare, their unique mode of action places them at a strategic advantage over traditional antibiotics. They can now be employed to design synthetic or chimeric endolysins with enhanced activity and broadened host range, even against Gram-negative bacteria, due to advancements made in molecular biology and protein engineering. This chapter gives a thorough analysis of the structure of bacteriophage endolysins, mode of action, classification, therapeutic applications, and challenges. Their potential in clinical medicine, agriculture, food safety, and biotechnology are also discussed, focusing on how they can serve as a viable solution to the global antibiotic resistance issue.