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.

ZHAW researchers are isolating and studying these tailspike proteins to develop safe and effective phage-based treatments. 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.

Behind the Scenes: Explaining Phages for ZHAW

When ZHAW approached us, they were working on a research project involving bacteriophages – viruses that can infect and kill antibiotic-resistant bacteria. The science was promising. But explaining it clearly to students, partners, and non-experts was a different story.

The Challenge

It was clear from the start that this wasn’t just an educational video. Dr. Sabina Gerber and her team had precise scientific concepts they needed to get across, but in a way that was also engaging and accessible.

One challenge stood out early: the sugar layer on bacteria. How does it work? Does it protect the bacteria or allow phages to bind? Even among our team, the mechanism sparked debate. We went back and forth in the script until the science and the wording finally aligned perfectly.

Another hurdle was the style of visualization. Sabina shared real photos of the team and requested we make the scientists look a little “likeable and alive” in the video. Not realistic, not cartoony. Just right. It took a few iterations, but we found the tone that matched the academic context and human touch they were after.

Then came the details: bacterial names, scientific accuracy, subtitle timing, and project titles requested by the ZHAW communication team. Even after final delivery, we were asked to make last-minute text changes for public use. For sure, we adapted.

The Result

A clean, engaging animation that ZHAW continues to use to explain their work on bacteriophages, both internally and to the public.