Bacteriophages for Treating Multidrug-Resistant Acinetobacter

| Posted in: Science

Journal name: The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences
Original article title: Potential Usefulness of Bacteriophages for the Treatment of Multidrug-Resistant Acinetobacter Infection
The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences (MJMS) is a peer-reviewed, open-access journal published online at least six times a year. It covers all aspects of medical sciences and prioritizes high-quality research.
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Author:

Fahad Raees, Azian Harun, Abdalla Ahmed, Zakuan Zainy Deris


The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences:

(A peer-reviewed, open-access journal)

Full text available for: Potential Usefulness of Bacteriophages for the Treatment of Multidrug-Resistant Acinetobacter Infection

Year: 2023 | Doi: 10.21315/mjms2023.30.5.2

Copyright (license): CC BY 4.0


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Summary of article contents:

Introduction

Bacteriophages, also known as phages, are viruses that specifically infect bacteria, particularly the lytic types which cause bacterial cell lysis. Discovered in the early 20th century, interest in phage therapy waned with the advent of antibiotics. However, with the rise of multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacterial infections, particularly those caused by Acinetobacter species, research into bacteriophage therapy has resurfaced. Over 30 lytic bacteriophages that target various Acinetobacter strains have been characterized, mostly belonging to the Caudovirales order, with significant variation in genome size and G+C content.

Phage Therapy Potential

The Use of Bacteriophages in Treating MDR Acinetobacter Infections
MDR Acinetobacter baumannii poses a significant challenge in modern medicine, as it is a major cause of healthcare-associated infections. Traditional treatment options are critically limited due to the extensive antibiotic resistance exhibited by these strains. Numerous studies have demonstrated the efficacy of bacteriophage therapy in preclinical murine models, with 14 trials indicating positive outcomes. There are also two documented human case reports where bacteriophage therapy successfully resolved Acinetobacter infections. This illustrates the potential of phages as transformative therapeutic agents against difficult-to-treat bacterial infections, particularly those caused by MDR pathogens.

Conclusion

Despite the promising potential of bacteriophage therapy for treating MDR Acinetobacter infections, the current body of research is limited, consisting of primarily animal studies and a few clinical cases. The highly selective nature of phages poses a significant challenge for broad-spectrum application in clinical settings. Future research efforts must focus on the development of phage cocktails to effectively target a wider range of Acinetobacter strains while ensuring safety and efficacy. Additionally, exploring bacteriophage-derived components such as endolysins shows promise as novel antimicrobial agents, highlighting the need for continued investigation in the field of phage therapy.

FAQ section (important questions/answers):

What are the potential benefits of bacteriophage therapy?

Bacteriophage therapy has shown promise in treating multidrug-resistant Acinetobacter infections, offering an alternative to antibiotics. Studies indicate successful outcomes in both animal models and limited human cases, demonstrating the ability to reduce bacterial burden significantly.

What are the main challenges associated with bacteriophage therapy?

The major challenges include the highly selective host range of bacteriophages, which limits their effectiveness against various strains of bacteria. Additionally, thorough testing and identification of suitable bacteriophage cocktails are required before clinical use, particularly in developing countries.

How many lytic bacteriophages infect Acinetobacter species have been identified?

Over 30 lytic bacteriophages infecting Acinetobacter species have been characterized. These bacteriophages belong mainly to the families Myoviridae, Siphoviridae, and Podoviridae, with genome sizes ranging from 31 kb to 234 kb.

How effective is bacteriophage therapy in humans?

Bacteriophage therapy has been documented in only two human case reports for treating Acinetobacter infections. Both cases reported successful resolution of infections; however, extensive research is required for broader clinical application.

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Bacteriophages for Treating Multidrug-Resistant Acinetobacter”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.

1) Table:
A table is a structured arrangement of data, often used in scientific literature to organize and present findings systematically. It facilitates comparison and analysis of various factors or results, helping researchers and readers visualize relationships and trends in data efficiently. In the context provided, tables summarize bacteriophage characteristics or experimental results.

2) Antibiotic (Antibacterial):
Antibacterial substances inhibit bacterial growth or kill bacteria. They are crucial in treating infections caused by pathogenic bacteria. The exploration of antibacterial agents is vital, especially in cases where traditional antibiotics fail due to resistance. Bacteriophage therapy serves as an innovative approach to finding new antibacterial treatments.

3) Drug:
A drug is a chemical substance used for medical purposes, including treatment, cure, prevention, or diagnosis of diseases. In the context of the article, it refers to traditional chemical medications like antibiotics that combat infections. The increasing prevalence of drug-resistant bacteria emphasizes the need for alternative therapies such as bacteriophage treatment.

4) Viru:
The word 'viru' likely refers to 'virus,' which encompasses a broad category of infectious agents capable of replicating only within living cells. In the article, it focuses on bacteriophages (phages), which are viruses specifically targeting bacteria. Understanding their role is essential for developing novel therapeutics against bacterial infections.

5) Activity:
In a biological context, activity refers to the function or effect produced by an entity, such as a drug or a bacteriophage. In this article, the activity of bacteriophages in killing or inhibiting the growth of specific bacterial species is crucial in evaluating their potential as therapeutic agents against multidrug-resistant pathogens.

6) Post:
The term 'post' signifies after a particular event or action. In medical research, phrases like 'post-infection' describe conditions or treatments applied after an infection has occurred. This timing is critical for assessing the efficacy of treatments like phage therapy in combating bacterial infections effectively after initial exposure.

7) Study (Studying):
A study in scientific literature refers to a systematic investigation aimed at discovering or validating facts. It may involve experimental trials, observational research, or reviews. Each study contributes valuable data regarding bacteriophage efficacy, mechanisms of resistance, and potential clinical applications, which are essential for the advancement of phage therapy.

8) Chang:
Chang likely references a specific author or researcher involved in phage therapy studies related to Acinetobacter baumannii. In academic contexts, names identify contributors to research findings. Their work may provide insights into bacteriophage isolation, characterization, and therapeutic efficacy in treating multidrug-resistant bacterial infections.

9) Species:
Species refers to a group of organisms sharing common characteristics and can interbreed. In the context of the article, specific bacterial species like Acinetobacter baumannii are highlighted. Understanding species diversity and characteristics is vital for effective therapeutic interventions, including tailored bacteriophage applications targeting particular strains.

10) Animal:
In biological research, the term animal often pertains to non-human species used for experiments. In bacteriophage therapy studies, animal models help assess the safety and efficacy of new treatments before they are considered for human use. The insights gained are critical for translation into clinical applications.

11) Family:
In biological classification, family is a higher taxonomic rank grouping related genera. For bacteriophage research, understanding family classification helps scientists identify characteristics and genetic relationships among various phages. This knowledge aids in selecting appropriate phages for therapeutic interventions and understanding their interactions with target bacteria.

12) Peng:
Peng likely refers to an author or researcher contributing to the body of work on bacteriophage therapy. The inclusion of their name within the article signifies their role in advancing knowledge about phages targeting multidrug-resistant bacteria, furthering the search for effective alternative treatments in modern medicine.

13) Blood:
In medical research, blood refers to the bodily fluid that carries nutrients and oxygen throughout the organism. It is often studied to assess the systemic effects of infections and treatments. The presence of bacteria in blood samples can indicate severe infections that may necessitate bacteriophage therapy as a treatment option.

14) Nature:
The term nature in this context relates to the natural world and the intrinsic characteristics of organisms. Understanding the nature of bacteriophages and their interactions with bacteria is vital for developing effective therapies. Nature here emphasizes the biological underpinnings essential for therapeutic interventions in infection control.

15) Rules:
In scientific research, rules refer to established guidelines or principles guiding experiments and interpretations. This can include ethical considerations in animal experiments, protocols for conducting studies, and methodologies for analyzing data. Adhering to these rules is crucial to obtaining valid and reliable results in bacteriophage therapy studies.

16) Jacob:
Jacob could refer to a researcher or author contributing to the understanding of bacteriophages or antibiotic resistance. In academic contexts, acknowledged individuals help shape the narrative through their findings and insights, promoting advancements in phage research as an alternative to traditional antibiotic therapies.

17) Sahu:
Sahu, likely an author, is associated with contributions to bacteriophage research focused on Acinetobacter baumannii. Their work is relevant for utilizing bacteriophages as a potential therapeutic solution to combat multidrug-resistant infections. Researchers like Sahu contribute significantly to the evolving field of phage therapy.

18) Observation:
Observation in scientific research refers to the act of monitoring phenomena during experiments or studies. It is critical for gathering data that inform conclusions about the efficacy of bacteriophage therapy against bacterial infections. Accurate observation aids researchers in refining therapeutic approaches and understanding treatment outcomes.

19) Hela (Helá):
HeLa refers to a line of human cancer cells widely used in medical research. In the context of this article, HeLa cells might be utilized in cytotoxicity experiments to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of bacteriophages against human cell lines, providing insights into their therapeutic potential.

20) Hand:
In research, 'hand' may denote the involvement of researchers in conducting experiments or therapies. It underscores the human element in scientific inquiry, emphasizing the integration of hands-on techniques and methodologies to explore bacteriophage applications in treating resistant bacterial infections effectively.

21) Transmission:
Transmission refers to the spread of pathogens, including bacteria and viruses, leading to infections. Understanding transmission dynamics is essential for phage therapy, guiding its application in controlling infections while highlighting the importance of preventing the spread of multidrug-resistant bacteria in clinical settings.

22) Resolving:
Resolving refers to the act of solving or alleviating an issue, such as an infection. In the context of bacteriophage therapy, it emphasizes the role of phages in reducing bacterial load and treating infections where traditional antibiotics are ineffective, thereby contributing to patient recovery.

23) Language:
Language in scientific discourse relates to the communication of research findings. It emphasizes the importance of clear communication in disseminating knowledge, engaging the medical community, and promoting understanding of novel therapies like bacteriophage treatments in combating multidrug-resistant bacterial infections effectively.

24) Summer:
Summer could imply a thematic focus on time within academic research. Specific experiments and studies may occur within a seasonal context, although the term itself may not directly relate to the article. It highlights the varied contexts under which scientific discoveries unfold in a broader temporal framework.

25) Indian:
Indian may refer to research or contributions from India, highlighting the global nature of bacteriophage research. It points to the diversity of efforts to address antibiotic resistance, encouraging collaboration across countries to develop innovative treatment solutions through bacteriophage therapy against multidrug-resistant pathogens.

26) Roman (Roma):
Roman may indicate an author or researcher, contributing to the field of bacteriophage applications. This term illustrates the collaborative aspect of research, where varied backgrounds come together to advance the understanding and potential therapeutic applications of phages in combating bacterial infections.

27) Glass:
Glass represents a medium that could relate to laboratory settings where experiments and observations occur. In microbiological contexts, glass tools and containers are vital for culturing bacteria and testing bacteriophage efficacy. The use of appropriate materials is essential in ensuring experimental integrity.

28) Water:
Water is a crucial component in biological systems. In the context of phage biology, water is often a solvent or medium used in laboratory experiments to dilute phage preparations. It underscores the environmental context where bacteriophages operate, reflecting their natural habitats in aquatic ecosystems.

29) Earth:
Earth refers to the planet and the broader environmental context where biological interactions occur. In bacteriophage studies, understanding the role of phages in natural ecosystems can inform their applications in medicine and agriculture, emphasizing the interconnectedness of organisms and the potential for ecological solutions to resist antibiotics.

30) Baka:
Baka could refer to an author or researcher involved in bacteriophage work. Acknowledging contributors by name emphasizes their role in advancing knowledge on phage therapy and its potential applications in combating multidrug-resistant pathogens. Individual researchers shape the discourse around treatment innovations.

31) Genu:
Genu relates to genealogy or classification in biological contexts. In bacteriophage research, understanding the genetic lineage and classification of phages is vital for leveraging their characteristics in therapeutic applications. This comprehension facilitates targeted therapy development against specific pathogens.

32) Jang:
Jang possibly implies an author or researcher contributing to studies on bacteriophages and their applications in treating infections. Such acknowledgments highlight the collaborative nature of research, emphasizing diverse perspectives and expertise in advancing therapies targeting multidrug-resistant bacteria.

33) Mast:
Mast could denote a researcher contributing to the study of bacteriophages. Mentioning individual contributors in scientific writing emphasizes the teamwork behind research advancements. It underscores the collaborative efforts vital for progressing understanding and application of bacteriophage therapy against resistant bacterial infections.

34) Worm:
Worm may refer to a biological model used in studies. Specifically, organisms like Caenorhabditis elegans are valuable in infection models. Understanding host-pathogen interactions in such models can guide phage therapy applications, emphasizing the relevance of different organisms in therapeutic research.

35) Transformation (Transform, Transforming):
Transformation in a scientific context refers to changes in organisms or systems, often through genetic modification. In the article, it could indicate how bacteriophage therapy alters bacterial populations. Understanding these transformations enhances the exploration of phage applications in treating multidrug-resistant infections effectively.

36) Performance:
In research, performance relates to the efficacy and outcomes of treatments or interventions. For bacteriophage therapy, assessing the performance of phages against specific bacterial strains informs therapeutic potential. High performance in vivo studies is crucial for validating clinical applicability.

37) Developing:
Developing refers to the process of creating or improving methods and therapies. In this context, it underscores the ongoing efforts in bacteriophage research to design effective treatments for infections caused by multidrug-resistant bacteria, reflecting a dynamic and evolving field of study.

38) Toxicity:
Toxicity refers to the harmful effects of substances on living organisms. In the context of bacteriophage research, assessing the toxicity of phages against human cells is crucial to ensure safety in therapeutic applications. Understanding toxicity profiles informs decisions in designing effective phage therapies.

39) Mutation:
Mutation refers to changes in an organism's genetic material, which can lead to variability and, potentially, resistance. In the study of bacteriophages, understanding mutation rates helps researchers anticipate bacterial resistance development against phage therapies, guiding strategies to counteract such challenges in treatment.

40) Dressing:
Dressing might refer to materials used in wound treatment. In bacterial infection contexts, appropriate dressings can safeguard infected areas and absorb exudate. Effective management of wounds, possibly in conjunction with bacteriophage therapy, can enhance healing results against infected wounds.

41) Disease:
Disease encompasses pathological conditions resulting from infections, including those caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Understanding disease mechanisms is crucial for developing effective treatments, including phage therapy, which represents a promising alternative to traditional antibiotics in managing debilitating infections.

42) Killing (Killed):
Killing pertains to the elimination of pathogens, a primary goal of antibacterial treatments. In the context of bacteriophages, it signifies the effectiveness of phage therapy in lysing targeted bacteria, providing a powerful tool in the ongoing struggle against multidrug-resistant infections.

43) Science (Scientific):
Science refers to systematic study through observation and experimentation. It emphasizes the importance of research methodologies in understanding bacteriophages, antibiotic resistance, and the development of innovative therapies. Scientific inquiry is foundational in advancing knowledge and solutions to global health challenges.

44) Surface:
Surface refers to the outer layer of materials, where interactions between bacteria and against surfaces occur. In bacteriophage studies, understanding how phages adhere to surfaces is essential for effective delivery and application in clinical settings, as well as in developing sanitation strategies.

45) Cancer:
Cancer denotes a group of diseases involving uncontrolled cell growth. While the article focuses on bacterial and phage interactions, cancer research intersects with phage therapy due to the need for novel therapeutics in immunocompromised patients, addressing bacterial infections complicating cancer treatments.

46) Fever:
Fever is a common symptom of infection, marked by an increase in body temperature. It signifies the body's response to pathogens, including bacterial infections that might be addressed by phage therapies. Managing fever through effective bacterial control measures is crucial in patient care.

47) Death:
Death represents the cessation of biological functions in individuals, often a critical endpoint in disease studies. In bacterial infections, understanding the factors leading to mortality informs treatment strategies, emphasizing the potential of bacteriophage therapy in reducing fatal outcomes in multidrug-resistant infections.

48) King:
King may refer to an author or entity contributing to bacteriophage research. Acknowledging individual contributors emphasizes the collaborative nature of scientific inquiry, highlighting various researchers' roles in advancing our understanding of phages as innovative therapeutic agents against resistant bacteria.

Other Science Concepts:

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Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘Bacteriophages for Treating Multidrug-Resistant Acinetobacter’. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:

Doi, Antibiotic, Mortality, Therapeutic agent, Antibiotic development, Therapeutic use, Antibiotic therapy, Wound infection, Bacterial infection, Treatment regimen, Control group, Clinical trial, Therapeutic efficacy, Antibacterial activity, Case report, Clinical Practice, Animal model, Clinical case report, In vitro, Antimicrobial agent, Clinical application, Antibacterial effect, Antimicrobial Resistance, Cell culture, Animal studies, Antimicrobial, PubMed, Google Scholar, Gram negative bacteria, Antibiotic resistance, Bactericidal activity, Experimental period, Bacterial load, Wound size, Bactericidal effect, Intensive care unit, In vivo, Typhoid fever, Cytotoxic effect, Septic shock, Observation period, Phage therapy, Antibacterial agent, Animal Study, Multidrug-resistant, Nosocomial infection, Clinical isolate, Acinetobacter baumannii, Host species, Survival rate, Intraperitoneal injection, Susceptibility test, Sewage water, HeLa cells, Acinetobacter infections, Healthcare-associated infection, Nosocomial transmission, Genetic studies, Multidrug resistant (MDR), Bacterial Burden, Acinetobacter sp., Carbapenem resistant, Pan drug resistant, Sterile saline, Murine model, Survival analysis, Genomic analysis, Genome sequencing, Animal trials, Bacteriophage therapy, Bacterial lysis, Prophylactic administration, Genomics, Viruses, Bacterial clearance, Resistance mechanism, Latent period, Multidrug resistant organism, Galleria mellonella, Acinetobacter species, Phage cocktail, Living cell, Genome sequence, Diabetic rat, Bacteriophage Research, Genet. Mol. Res., Multidrug resistant Acinetobacter, Int J Mol Sci, Antibiotic era, Appl Environ Microbiol, PLoS ONE, Antimicrob Agents Chemother, Microorganism, Resistance gene, Bacteriophage, Lung infection.

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