Bacteriophage biocontrol of plant pathogens: fact or fiction?

Trends Biotechnol. 2004 Aug;22(8):384-5. doi: 10.1016/j.tibtech.2004.05.007.

Abstract

Bacterial resistance due to the misuse of antibiotics has become a global issue and alternative methods are being developed that might decrease the use of antimicrobials in agricultural settings. Bacteriophage therapy represents a novel way to control the growth of plant-based bacterial pathogens. Although this method shows promise, a recent paper by Gill and Abedon has shown that the complex bacteriophage-host interactions in the plant environment must be investigated further.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / pharmacology*
  • Bacteriophages / pathogenicity*
  • Drug Resistance, Bacterial*
  • Plants / drug effects
  • Plants / microbiology*

Substances

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents