Publication of the adaptive phage therapy protocol in "Antibiotics" journal

According to WHO estimates, the existence of antibiotic-resistant bacterial strains is one of the global threats to healthcare since it causes millions of deaths annually. As more drugs become ineffective, there is a growing interest worldwide in bacteriophage therapy. However, a problem persists: over the past two decades, there have been no new commercially available therapeutic phage products developed, as it is challenging to register them in accordance with existing legislation in many countries.

An alternative way to legalize phages for clinical use was initially proposed by scientists from "MicroMir" RPC and FRCC ICMR; it is the so-called "adaptive phage therapy." This kind of therapy is about selecting bacteriophages not for individual patients but for the entire spectrum of bacteria circulating in the intensive care unit along with constant monitoring of their effectiveness. In 2023, as part of promoting this therapy, "MicroMir" RPC has already obtained a patent for applying a phage complex active against 14 major causative agents of nosocomial pneumonia.

In a new article for "Antibiotics" journal published under the auspices of MDPI, "MicroMir" RPC has once again collaborated with colleagues from FRCC ICMR, detailing the interaction between bacteriophage manufacturer and clinical institutions within the adaptive approach. Additionally, the study delves into three clinical cases. Patients from FRCC ICMR intensive care unit received a bacteriophage complex through inhalation for 28 days without the use of antibiotics. Key observations include:

• No observed side effects.
• All patients showed elimination of multi-drug-resistant microorganisms from bronchoalveolar lavage.
• Computer tomography data indicated improvement in lung condition.
• Inflammatory markers, such as C-reactive protein (CRP) and procalcitonin, decreased.

The results demonstrate the potential application of adaptive phage therapy in hospital units to reduce the use of antibiotics, preserving their effectiveness.