Bacteriophage applications in bacteriology

Bacteriophages, which are defined as viruses that infect bacteria for many years, may also be referred to as natural alternatives to antimicrobials in the future. Lytic phages are used especially in biocontrol of bacterial pathogens. Particularly in the last decade, phages have been applied for the decontamination of foods, surfaces, and for the treatment of infections caused by antimicrobial resistant microorganisms in humans and animals. Although encouraging results are being obtained in the inactivation of bacterial pathogens by bacteriophage applications, there are still some challenges that need to be investigated in the long term.

The goal of this Research Topic is to showcase up-to-date data on different uses of bacteriophages, new isolates, reversal of antimicrobial resistance and its effect on biofilms, and to obtain new characterization methods, especially in the context of (re)emerging pathogens. Research submitted will therefore contribute to human and animal health and food safety problems.

Keywords: Bacterial pathogens, Bacteriophage Biocontrol, Food-borne pathogens, Phage therapy

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