A Functional Genomics Approach for Improved Bacteriophage Cocktail Design

Acton, Luke James (2023) A Functional Genomics Approach for Improved Bacteriophage Cocktail Design. Doctoral thesis, University of East Anglia.

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Abstract

The ability of virulent bacteriophages to lyse and kill bacteria has dramatic impacts on bacterial evolution, fitness, and population structures. In addition, they also have great potential for use in therapy as well as biocides in food processing and agriculture. For successful bacteriophage applications, in depth knowledge of their interactions with a susceptible host is required to ensure optimal effectiveness. This should include knowledge of host susceptibility and resistance factors which can be used to select combinations of phages, which when used together, kill bacteria more efficiently. In this study, we conduct an extensive case study of a raw pet food producer to investigate microbial pathogens present within the factory environment and understand stages of production where bacteriophages could be used to reduce microbial pathogen presence. We present the isolation and in-depth characterisation of twelve bacteriophages which infect Salmonella enterica strains isolated from pet food products. Utilising a high throughput functional genomic screen, we better understand how bacteriophages interact with a susceptible host and select a combination of bacteriophages which is ten times more effective at killing Salmonella. Testing the use of a phage cocktail containing these phages, we demonstrate its efficacy at reducing Salmonella within a food matrix in conditions consistent with culture-based food surveillance testing. A better understanding for the use of bacteriophages will help inform their use, ensure efficacy, and help to reduce the burden of bacterial diseases by ensuring a safe supply of food.

Item Type:	Thesis (Doctoral)
Faculty \ School:	Faculty of Science > School of Biological Sciences
Depositing User:	Chris White
Date Deposited:	07 Mar 2024 08:02
Last Modified:	07 Mar 2024 08:02
URI:	https://ueaeprints.uea.ac.uk/id/eprint/94588
DOI:

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