Bacteriophages, a weapon against animal bacterial pathogens and biofilms

In the field of bacteriology, the rapid rise of drug-resistant bacterial infections and the lack of effective antimicrobial agents have necessitated the development of alternative therapies. Bacteriophages, or phages, are bacterial viruses that are abundant and diverse, with lytic phages possessing the ability to invade bacterial cells, disrupt their metabolism, and cause cell lysis. These properties make lytic phages potential biocontrol agents for treating bacterial infections in humans and animals, particularly against drug-resistant bacteria. Phage-derived proteins, such as endolysins, holins, polysaccharide depolymerases, and peptidoglycan hydrolases, have demonstrated antibacterial activity. However, despite the increasing interest in phage-based biocontrol strategies, there is a need for more comprehensive studies to better understand the interplay between phages or phage-derived proteins and bacteria or biofilms.

This research topic aims to publish original research and review articles that explore the application of phages or phage-derived proteins as antimicrobial agents against animal bacterial infections or biofilms. The goal is to deepen our understanding of the complex interactions between phages or phage-derived proteins and bacteria or biofilms, which could enhance the development of therapeutic applications. We also welcome studies that discuss the efficacy and safety of phage or phage-derived protein therapy in animals, as these are crucial aspects of any potential treatment.

To further our understanding of this topic, we invite articles that address, but are not limited to, the following themes:

• The application of phages or phage-derived proteins in the treatment of animal bacterial infection or biofilms
• The mechanisms of interaction between phages or phage-derived proteins and bacteria or bacterial biofilms
• The efficacy and safety of phage or phage-derived protein therapy in animals.