Phage Therapy and Pseudomonas

Bacteriophages, or phages, are viruses that specifically target and destroy bacteria. These microscopic predators outnumber all other organisms on Earth and thrive in diverse environments, including ponds, lakes, and oceans.


Phages resemble tiny robotic explorers, akin to microscopic land rovers on a mission. Each has a 20-sided head mounted on a tail equipped with leg-like fibers. Genetically programmed to attack a specific type of bacteria, a phage latches onto its bacterial host, punctures the cell wall with its tail, and injects its genetic material. This hijacks the bacterium’s cellular machinery, transforming it into a factory for producing new phages. Once the bacterium is filled with newly formed viruses, the phage releases an enzyme which ruptures the host cell, unleashing the next wave of phages to continue the cycle.


Phages were first identified in 1915 by bacteriologist Frederick Twort and later studied extensively by scientist Félix d’Hérelle in 1917. D’Hérelle recognized their potential as antibacterial agents and pioneered phage therapy, establishing treatment centers across Eastern Europe. However, interest in phage therapy declined after the discovery of penicillin in 1928 by Alexander Fleming, leading to the widespread use of antibiotics.


Now, with antibiotic resistance emerging as a global crisis, phage therapy is regaining attention as a promising alternative.


A recent breakthrough came from the Phase 2 Tailwind study conducted by Armata Pharmaceuticals. It showed encouraging results for AP-PA02, an inhaled bacteriophage therapy targeting Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections in patients with non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis. The findings support the potential of phage therapy as a standalone treatment or adjunct to reduce reliance on chronic antibiotics, particularly for drug-resistant infections.


Armata Pharmaceuticals is now advancing toward a Phase 3 clinical trial, anticipated to begin this year. If successful, this could mark a significant step forward in combating pseudomonas lung infections.


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