Researchers at University of Otago Pursue Phage Therapy Breakthrough

Researchers at the University of Otago are advancing efforts to develop phage therapy as a method to combat bacterial diseases, particularly in agriculture. Led by Prof. Peter Fineran and Dr. Robert Fagerlund, the team is focusing on bacteriophages—viruses that specifically target and eliminate bacteria. Their work addresses the significant losses faced by cherry orchards in New Zealand due to harmful bacterial infections.

The project has received funding from the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE), enabling the researchers to explore innovative solutions for managing bacterial threats. Prof. Fineran noted that they have collaborated with several orchards in Otago to collect phage samples for study. The Pseudomonas bacteria, a major concern for growers, can lead to losses between 20% and 50% in young orchards, prompting reliance on copper sprays for control. Unfortunately, this method not only harms beneficial microbes but also contributes to increased bacterial resistance.

The research team is developing “phage cocktails,” which consist of multiple phages designed to bypass bacterial defenses. Prof. Fineran explained, “If one phage is blocked, another still gets through. In that way, you end up with a very robust treatment which avoids the emergence of resistance.” This specificity allows for targeted action against harmful bacteria while preserving beneficial microbial populations, contrasting sharply with the indiscriminate nature of traditional antibiotics.

Phage Innovations and Broader Applications

Beyond agricultural applications, the principles of phage therapy are applicable to human and animal pathogens. Recent discoveries include “jumbo phages,” which create protective protein shells within bacteria that shield phages from enzymatic degradation. The team has also investigated phages that modify their DNA with sugars to resist CRISPR gene-editing technologies. Some phages incorporate one sugar, while others utilize up to three, offering diverse forms of protection against different bacterial defenses.

The potential for phages extends into clinical settings, where they are currently being trialed in hospitals, particularly for treating persistent infections that do not respond to conventional treatments. While phage therapy is gaining traction in mainstream agriculture, Prof. Fineran cautioned that phages should not be viewed as a “silver bullet.” Instead, they are likely to serve as a complementary approach alongside antibiotics and other treatments.

“To achieve the desired outcomes, we must understand bacterial immune systems and the various methods by which phages can overcome these defenses,” he said. This foundational research remains a critical focus for the team at the University of Otago, as they seek to harness the full potential of bacteriophages in combating bacterial diseases effectively.

As they continue their work, the researchers hope that their findings will contribute to a sustainable and effective strategy for managing bacterial infections, thereby benefiting both agriculture and human health in the long run.