Bacteriophage-based approach for treatment of urinary tract infections: a quick outlook

APMIS. 2024 Feb;132(2):81-93. doi: 10.1111/apm.13362. Epub 2023 Nov 29.

Abstract

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are among the most common bacterial infections affecting millions worldwide. The increasing emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria has become a serious concern in managing UTIs. Therefore, there is a growing interest in using bacteriophages as an alternative or adjunct therapy for UTIs. Bacteriophages are viruses that infect and kill bacteria, making them a promising tool for treating UTIs caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria. This article provides a quick outlook on using bacteriophages to treat UTIs. We summarize the current understanding of the biology of bacteriophages, the challenges associated with developing phage-based therapies, and the promising results of several case reports and clinical trials. We also highlight the potential of phage therapy as a valuable tool in the fight against antibiotic-resistant UTIs. This quick outlook on a bacteriophage-based approach for treating UTIs offers a timely and informative summary of the current research in this field.

Keywords: Antibiotic resistance; UTI; bacteriophages; phage therapy.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / therapeutic use
  • Bacteria
  • Bacterial Infections* / microbiology
  • Bacteriophages*
  • Humans
  • Urinary Tract Infections* / microbiology

Substances

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents