Bacteriophages are those viruses that have evolved to target and kill specific bacterial species or strains specifically. Phages outnumber all living forms on the planet and can be found wherever bacteria exist. They were discovered in the early twentieth century and have long been studied for their medicinal potential. However, this is becoming more important with the emergence and spread of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Its applications are currently limited, mainly because each phage species targets and eliminates only one bacterial species. In addition, the current arsenal of known therapeutically effective phages is minimal. As a result, phage therapy research is now limited to experimental treatments when all other feasible options have failed or are failing.
A large case series of patients treated with bacteriophage therapy for antibiotic-resistant illnesses has yielded good outcomes. The study may put Bacteriophage Therapy Market in a positive light while introducing a new application within it.
A group of 20 individuals with complex, antibiotic-resistant mycobacterial illnesses took part in the current trial. All of the patients had different underlying illnesses; the majority of them had cystic fibrosis (CF). It is an inherited, progressive disease that severely damages the lungs and other organs. There is currently no cure for CF. People with cystic fibrosis who live to adulthood have an average lifetime of 44 years.
The team stated the following based on their research -
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It highlighted the need to increase the repertoire of useful phages considerably. This may be done by growing them from isolated strains or manufacturing synthetic copies, a new business.
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The lack of phage resistance was positive, indicating that a single phage treatment might be used. However, if more than one appropriate phage is available, the authors recommend cycling their administration to avoid immune system neutralization.
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Whether intravenous or aerosolized phage treatment is best depends on the type of the infection and whether the patient's immune system is impaired.
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Since phages appear to be well tolerated and have minimal side effects, greater doses and longer therapy periods may be achievable and beneficial.
At last, the group added, all of the constraints seen and documented aren't insurmountable. These case studies imply that phage treatments could be useful in treating NTM (Non-tuberculosis Mycobacterium) infections in the clinic.