The science
In this video for ZHAW, we explore how bacteriophages selectively infect and destroy harmful bacteria, even those resistant to antibiotics. These phages use specialized structures called tailspike proteins to recognize and bind to bacterial surfaces. The tailspike proteins then degrade the complex sugar layer surrounding bacteria, allowing phages to penetrate and kill them.
To develop safe and effective phage-based treatments, ZHAW researchers are isolating and studying these tailspike proteins independently. Using advanced lab equipment, they analyze how efficiently these proteins bind to bacterial surfaces and break down their protective layers. This research could lead to new ways to control harmful bacteria in medical and food applications, offering a promising alternative to traditional antibiotics.
Learn more at zhaw.ch.
