Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 10, 2026
Super-resolution Imaging of Proteus mirabilis Biofilm by Expansion Microscopy
Published on: July 18, 2025
Genomic and Biological Characterization of a Novel Proteus mirabilis Phage with Anti-Biofilm Activity
Yan Liang1, Nana Li1, Shenghui Wan1
1College of Animal Science and Technology, Shihezi University, Shihezi 832003, China.
Abstract:
The emergence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) Proteus mirabilis poses a significant threat in porcine farming and public health, highlighting the need for alternative biocontrol agents. This study aimed to isolate and characterize a lytic bacteriophage with therapeutic potential against MDR P. mirabilis. Using the clinical MDR P. mirabilis strain Pm 07 as host, a bacteriophage, vB_Pmc_P-07 (P-07), was successfully isolated from fecal and sewage samples via an enrichment protocol. Phage P-07 forms plaques surrounded by a distinct translucent "halo," suggesting the production of depolymerase. It achieved high titers of up to 1.40 × 108 PFU/mL and exhibited a narrow host range, high stability across a broad range of temperatures (40-60 °C) and pH (4-12), as well as considerable anti-biofilm activity. An optimal multiplicity of infection (MOI) of 0.001 was determined. Whole-genome sequencing revealed a linear double-stranded DNA genome of 58,582 bp with a GC content of 46.91%, encoding 63 open reading frames. Crucially, no virulence or antibiotic resistance genes were detected, supporting its safety profile. Phylogenetic analysis classified P-07 within the Casjensviridae family, closely related to phages PM87 and pPM01. These findings indicate that phage P-07 is a novel, safe, and effective lytic phage with strong potential as a biocontrol agent against biofilm-forming MDR P. mirabilis in swine.
Insights
A novel bacteriophage, P-07, was isolated to combat multidrug-resistant Proteus mirabilis in swine. This safe and stable phage shows potential as a biocontrol agent against resistant bacterial infections.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Veterinary Science
- Biotechnology
Background:
- Multidrug-resistant (MDR) Proteus mirabilis is a growing concern in swine farming and public health.
- There is an urgent need for alternative biocontrol agents to manage MDR P. mirabilis infections.
Purpose of the Study:
- To isolate and characterize a lytic bacteriophage with therapeutic potential against MDR P. mirabilis.
- To evaluate the safety and efficacy of the isolated bacteriophage as a biocontrol agent.
Main Methods:
- Isolation of bacteriophage P-07 from fecal and sewage samples using MDR P. mirabilis Pm 07 as the host.
- Characterization of phage P-07, including plaque morphology, host range, stability (temperature and pH), and anti-biofilm activity.
- Whole-genome sequencing and phylogenetic analysis of the isolated bacteriophage.
Main Results:
- Bacteriophage vB_Pmc_P-07 (P-07) was successfully isolated, exhibiting high titers (up to 1.40 × 10^8 PFU/mL) and depolymerase activity.
- Phage P-07 demonstrated broad stability across temperatures (40-60 °C) and pH (4-12), with significant anti-biofilm capabilities.
- Genome analysis revealed a 58,582 bp dsDNA genome with no detected virulence or antibiotic resistance genes, indicating a favorable safety profile.
Conclusions:
- Phage P-07 is a novel, safe, and effective lytic bacteriophage.
- P-07 shows strong potential as a biocontrol agent against biofilm-forming MDR P. mirabilis in swine populations.
- This research contributes to developing alternative strategies for managing antimicrobial resistance in animal agriculture.
Related Concept Videos
01:28Gene Regulation in Microbial Communities: Quorum Sensing
01:26DNA Bacteriophages
01:29Biofilms