Bacteriophage Therapy for Tuberculosis: A Research Proposal

Background: Tuberculosis (TB) remains a leading infectious cause of death globally. The rise of multidrug-resistant (MDR-TB) and extensively drug-resistant (XDR-TB) strains threatens control efforts. New therapeutic strategies are urgently needed.

Proposed Research: Bacteriophage Therapy

Bacteriophages (phages) are viruses that selectively infect and kill bacteria. They have shown efficacy against various bacterial infections in vitro and in vivo, but their potential against Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) is underexplored.

Objectives

1. Identify and characterize phages with lytic activity against Mtb, including drug-resistant strains.
2. Evaluate phage efficacy in vitro (axenic culture, macrophage infection models) and in vivo (mouse or guinea pig TB models).
3. Assess safety, immunogenicity, and pharmacokinetics of phage preparations in animal models.
4. Investigate phage-antibiotic synergy and potential for phage resistance development.

Significance

Successful phage therapy could offer a targeted, adaptable, and resistance-breaking treatment for drug-resistant TB, complementing existing regimens and reducing treatment duration and toxicity.