University of Pittsburgh researchers have identified five distinct bacteriophages that together can infect and kill several Achromobacter strains.
Description
Research exploring the therapeutic potential of bacteriophages, viruses of bacteria that can infect and kill bacterial cells, is a growing area of interest in the face of the global increase in antibiotic resistance. These bacteriophages can target specific bacteria and can potentially be personalized to each patient. The identification of novel phages used solely or as a cocktail and, coupled with a targeted approach, could treat a wide variety of bacteria including treatment resistant strains.
Applications
• Hospital acquired infection
• Treatment resistant infection
• Personalized antibiotic treatment
Advantages
Antibiotic resistance is classed as one of the greatest global threats to public health. The emergence of treatment-resistant bacterial strains has caused previously treatable infections to be more challenging due to the reduced effectiveness of antibiotics. Around the world, the antibiotic resistance crisis is linked to around 5 million deaths annually with healthcare-associated infections an important driver of antibiotic resistance. Hospitalized patients, already vulnerable, are at increased risk of infection with a resistant strain, contributing to poorer outcomes.
Bacteriophages are an encouraging alternative to antibiotics in the battle to overcome antibacterial resistance. Distinct phages have been shown to selectively infect and kill unique strains of bacteria. This targeted approach can reduce side effects associated with broad spectrum antibiotics and substantially reduces the risk of treatment resistance.
Invention Readiness
Five novel phages (phiACH01, phiACH04, phiACH05, phiACH06, and phiACH07) were sourced from environmental (wastewater) samples and found to target a variety of Achromobacter strains. Genetic analysis predicts that all five phages belong to the Siphoviridae family and are likely suitable candidates for phage therapy. In vitro, a cocktail containing all five phages was found to target a broader range of bacterial targets than any single phage could achieve. Work is planned to test the activity of these phages in human patients through compassionate use pathways and larger clinical trials.
IP Status
Patent Pending
