Phages have been battling bacteria since the dawn of time. Evolutionary biologist Paul Turner explains how phages could be harnessed to fight the rising threat of antibiotic resistance, and it’s not what you think!

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~ About the Film: How to Kill a Superbug ~

Phages, the natural viral adversaries of #bacteria, have been locked in an ancient battle since the dawn of time. This relentless evolutionary struggle has taken on renewed significance in the face of antibioticresistant bacteria, commonly known as #superbugs. The widespread overuse and misuse of antibiotics have made antibioticresistant bacteria a grave global health threat.

Evolutionary biologist Paul Turner’s groundbreaking research centers on using #phagetherapy to tackle the modern challenge of antimicrobial resistance. Phage therapy works by treating bacteria, like Pseudomonas aeruginosa, with #phages. These #viruses infect the bacteria, killing most of them off, until they evolve in a way that makes them susceptible to conventional antibiotics. It’s biological trickery at its best!

This approach holds immense promise in the ongoing battle against antibiotic resistance. It not only targets specific superbugs but also addresses the risk of perpetuating further #drugresistance, a concern associated with conventional antibiotics. By utilizing phage therapy, Paul's work offers a glimpse into a future where we can outsmart and ultimately overcome the resilient superbugs that threaten public health.

#antimicrobialresistance #antibioticresistance #phage #PaulTurner #virus #microbe #microbes #microbiology

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~ Credits and Resources ~

Directed by Ruth Lichtman & Sharon Shattuck

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