The forgotten is now relevant again: how scientists aim to tackle the global antibiotic crisis.

Researchers are increasingly exploring a potential alternative to traditional antibiotics—bacteriophages. These viruses, which specifically target bacteria, could revolutionize the treatment of bacterial infections, particularly in the context of rising antibiotic resistance. Bacteriophages have been known since 1917 and were widely used before antibiotics became the dominant force in medicine. Today, they are garnering renewed interest as scientists attempt to combat the growing threat of drug-resistant superbugs, as reported by Scientific American.

According to a new study published in The Lancet, the so-called superbugs complicate the treatment of infections as doctors seek alternatives, resulting in approximately one million deaths annually since 1990. Their resistance to antibiotics, exacerbated by misuse in healthcare and agriculture, poses a serious challenge.

The World Health Organization and the United Nations have released grim forecasts indicating that by 2050, millions of people could die each year from untreatable bacterial infections if new solutions are not developed. Hospitals, where sterile environments promote the development of superbugs, and the agricultural sector, where antibiotics are widely used, significantly contribute to this crisis.

Bacteriophages offer scientists a unique solution due to their ability to evolve alongside bacteria. While bacteria relatively quickly develop defenses against antibiotics, bacteriophages adapt in response, maintaining their effectiveness. Currently, researchers are conducting trials to assess the potential of phages in combating pathogens such as Shigella and antibiotic-resistant Enterococcus. Additionally, phage-based sprays are already being utilized in the food industry, approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for sanitization purposes, although their use in medicine is not yet permitted in the U.S.

Interest in phage therapy surged sharply after Tom Patterson, who battled an antibiotic-resistant infection, recovered following a combined treatment of phages and antibiotics in 2015. This case became a significant event, prompting scientists worldwide to pursue further research and clinical trials.

However, challenges remain in implementing such methods. The regulatory framework is still not adapted to the dynamic nature of phage therapy, as phages reproduce and evolve within the body, complicating dosage and standardization. The revival of phage therapy represents a return to a historical approach but requires modern precision to ensure safety and efficacy.

The potential of genetic engineering to enhance the capabilities of phages further increases its appeal to pharmaceutical companies, despite ethical and technical hurdles. As research progresses, there is hope that this innovative approach could complement or even replace antibiotics in the fight against invincible bacterial infections.

Important! This article is based on the latest scientific and medical research and does not contradict them. The text is for informational purposes only and does not contain medical advice. For a diagnosis, be sure to consult a doctor.