The Anti-Bacterial Potentials of Phage-Therapy: A Review

Abstract

Bacterial infections are among the major indices of health hazard threatening public health and welfare. They are the leading cause of starvation and death the world over. Several methodologies were applied to combat the menace among which are the use of chemotherapy, immunotherapy, probiotics, and other preventive measures. Ironically, despite all the advancements in technological know-how and high medical-care, these methodologies have adverse side effects and drug resistant strains of bacteria are increasing at an alarming rate due to over-prescription and misuse of drugs. The consequent effect of which poses a threat to modern medicine that if care is not taken, untreatable bacterial infections might soon reach a point beyond control; which would subsequently lead to the re-emergence of diseases with fatal consequences. One such measure of combating this menace is the use of phage-therapy, which is the nature’s own method of controlling bacteria. It involves the use of bacteriophages (small viruses that predate bacteria) to cure bacterial infections. It is quicker, safer and specific in action with no side effects. This study aimed at enhancing the understanding of the potentials of phage-therapy in the prevention and treatment of bacterial infections and other microbial pathogens. This was achieved through comparison with the most common and contemporary methods available in the world today.

Keywords: Antibiotics, Bacteriophages, Chemotherapy, Immunotherapy, Phage-therapy.