Learning From Mistakes: The Role of Phages in Pandemics

Abstract

The misuse of antibiotics is leading to the emergence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria, and in the absence of available treatments, this has become a major global threat. In the middle of the recent severe acute respiratory coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic, which has challenged the whole world, the emergence of MDR bacteria is increasing due to prophylactic administration of antibiotics to intensive care unit patients to prevent secondary bacterial infections. This is just an example underscoring the need to seek alternative treatments against MDR bacteria. To this end, phage therapy has been proposed as a promising tool. However, further research in the field is mandatory to assure safety protocols and to develop appropriate regulations for its use in clinics. This requires investing more in such non-conventional or alternative therapeutic approaches, to develop new treatment regimens capable of reducing the emergence of MDR and preventing future global public health concerns that could lead to incalculable human and economic losses.

Isolation, Characterization, and Genomic Analysis of Three Novel E. coli Bacteriophages That Effectively Infect E. coli O18

“…This necessitates conglomerate efforts toward the development of alternative therapies to antibiotics within a narrow time frame. Bacteriophage is the most promising alternative to antibiotics for treating infections due to ‘superbugs’ [ 42 , 43 , 44 ]. In this research study, three different bacteriophages were successfully isolated from hospital sewage samples against E. coli O18 as a bacterial host.…”

Topically Applied Bacteriophage to Control Multi-Drug Resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae Infected Wound in a Rat Model

“…Phage has unique properties such as self-proliferation and high immunity with low side effects for eukaryotic cells [ 21 , 22 ]. Furthermore, it was characterized by its higher stability and efficiency in diverse environmental conditions against MDR pathogens, and it can be considered as a potential replacement for antibiotics [ 18 , 23 ]. The potential of utilizing phage therapy to overcome the crisis of MDR bacterial infections was proven in laboratory animal models.…”

Alternative Treatment Strategies for Secondary Bacterial and Fungal Infections Associated with COVID-19

“…4 ) [ 60 ]. FDA approval of phage therapy against secondary infections for patients in critical care with COVID-19 in 2020 reinforces the role bacteriophages can play in managing the pandemic [ 61 ].…”