Bacteriophages: An arsenal for the 21st century antimicrobial resistant pathogens | ||||
Microbes and Infectious Diseases | ||||
Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 01 August 2025 | ||||
Document Type: Review Article | ||||
DOI: 10.21608/mid.2025.338227.2357 | ||||
![]() | ||||
Authors | ||||
Asmau Nna Sulaiman ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() | ||||
Department of Microbiology, Ahmadu Bello University, Nigeria | ||||
Abstract | ||||
Background: The global antimicrobial resistance (AMR) crisis necessitates urgent action, and bacteriophages( viruses targeting bacteria), offer promise in combating antibiotic-resistant infections. As they could serve as alternative to conventional antibiotics. With unique life cycles, specificity, and minimal side effects, phage therapy presents advantages over traditional antibiotics, including selectivity that minimizes collateral damage to the microbiome, minimal side effects, and adaptability to evolving pathogens. Successful case studies demonstrate efficacy against resistant strains, and phage cocktails enhance effectiveness. Despite challenges such as regulatory hurdles, bacterial resistance, and delivery methods, research advancements and pioneering efforts indicate a promising future for phage therapy in clinical practice. Additionally, the potential of phage therapy can be extended beyond medicine to agriculture, food safety, and environmental management. Concerted efforts in research, investment, and regulatory support can harness phage therapy's potential, revolutionizing bacterial infection treatment and improving public health, making bacteriophages a significant 21st-century solution to the growing AMR crisis. | ||||
Keywords | ||||
Antimicrobial Resistance; Phage therapy; Bacteriophages; Antibiotics; Infection | ||||
Statistics Article View: 88 |
||||