Research progress of phages in prevention and treatment of bacterial biofilm-associated infections

Abstract:

Bacterial biofilms are aggregates surrounded by extracellular polymeric substances produced by bacteria,exhibiting significant resistance to antimicrobials and host immune defense mechanisms.As a result,they become a crucial factor in the recalcitrance of bacterial infections.Phages,as a class of viruses capable of specifically infecting and lysing bacteria,have demonstrated immense potential in the prevention and treatment of biofilm-associated infections.This review summarizes the efficacy,in vitro and in vivo research methods,and mechanisms of phages,phage endolysins,and phage-antibiotic combinations in combating biofilm-associated infections.Furthermore,it discusses the prospects and potential obstacles of phages in this field,aiming to give insights into the development of more effective therapeutic agents.

Key words:phage;bacterial biofilm;endolysin;phage-antibiotic combination therapy