Phage therapy

The phage therapy was investigated, for example, in multi-drug resistant Acinetobacter baumannii. Possible mechanisms of action include:

• Direct lysis of bacteria,


• Biofilm disruption by depolymerases,


• Resensitization of resistant strains to antibiotics through receptor-mediated fitness compromises,


• Use of phage-derived enzymes like endolysins.

Preclinical studies show strong efficacy; clinical case reports and studies indicate potential but also challenges, such as phage resistance and variable patient responses.

PEGylation was used to improve pharmacokinetic properties. Achieved were better circulation and immune evasion.

For topical use, phage-antibiotic combinations and novel delivery systems like hydrogel formulations were investigated.

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