Isolation, characterization, and antibacterial activity of lytic bacteriophage against methicillin-resistant causing bedsore and diabetic wounds.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Phage therapy has gained interest as an alternative treatment for methicillin-resistant (MRSA) infections. The purpose of this study was to isolate and characterize an effective bacteriophage against isolates of MRSA.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Bacteriophage was isolated from hospital sewage. Lytic activity and the titers of phage lysates were measured using spot test and double-layer plaque assay. The phage characterization was determined through transmission electron microscopy. Adsorption rate, host range and stability tests were investigated. The latent period and burst size were estimated from a one-step growth curve. The effect of bacteriophage against MRSA biofilms was determined and Real-time PCR was used to assess the effects of the bacteriophage on the expression of the biofilm-associated genes.

RESULTS

TEM results showed that the phage resembled the family. Its latent period was 30 min, corresponding to about 71/43 phage particles per infected cell. The phage had a broad host range and it was most stable at 37°C and pH 7. It was sensitive to NaCl concentrations. The expressions of the biofilm-associated genes were significantly reduced in the presence of the phage.

CONCLUSION

The isolated phage was effective against MRSA strains and it can be an optional strategy of controlling biofilm development.