In view of the worldwide increase in antibiotic resistance, scientists from the Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research (HZI) and the Helmholtz Institutes for RNA-based Infection Research (HIRI) and for One Health (HIOH) are researching the therapeutic potential of bacteriophages. These viruses, which specifically infect and destroy bacteria, are considered a promising addition to antibiotics. World Antibiotic Awareness Week (18–24 November) underlines the urgency of new approaches against resistant germs.

At the HZI, around 20 research groups are developing new anti-infectives. One focus is on bacteriophages, which precisely attack their host bacteria without damaging human cells. Dr. Milan Gerovac studies jumbophages at HIRI, whose large DNA genome includes numerous genes. Using an innovative RNA technology, his team identified central phage proteins that are crucial for the infection of the hospital germ Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Jun.-Prof. Jens Hör researches RNA phages, which escape bacterial defense mechanisms through their RNA genetic material. His work aims at a better understanding of their reproduction and possible biotechnological applications.

At HIOH, Dr. Jan Gogarten is looking for new phages with a broad host spectrum in primate faeces that could represent a diverse resource for phage therapy. In addition, phages could reveal contacts between humans and animals that pose risks for zoonoses.

Despite their potential, phages are not a substitute for antibiotics because their production is individual and complex. Research at the HZI and its partner institutes aims to establish phages as a complementary therapy to combat the antibiotic resistance crisis.

Editor: X-Press Journalistenbüro GbR

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