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Researchers at EPFL's Laboratory of Bionanotechnology, led by Professor Andrew deMello, have engineered bacteriophages to produce an enzyme that significantly degrades bacterial biofilms. Their work demonstrated up to a 99% reduction in *Pseudomonas aeruginosa* biofilm biomass in vitro and improved antibiotic penetration in animal models. This methodology involved genetically modifying phages to express a dispersin enzyme upon infection, which breaks down the extracellular polymeric substance of the biofilm. The surprising implication is that phages can be programmed not just to kill but also to dismantle bacterial defenses, making existing antibiotics more potent. This pioneering study was published in *Nature Biotechnology*.
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Why It’s Fascinating
Experts are excited because bacterial biofilms are a major contributor to antibiotic resistance, making many chronic infections extremely difficult to treat. This discovery overturns the passive role of phages, showing they can be active agents in breaking down complex bacterial structures beyond direct lysis. Within 5-10 years, this approach could lead to new combination therapies for persistent infections like those in cystic fibrosis patients or on medical implants. Imagine phages as microscopic 'wrecking balls' clearing a path for antibiotics to reach their targets effectively. Patients with chronic infections, especially those resistant to current treatments, stand to benefit most from this innovation. How might this technology be adapted to prevent biofilm formation entirely, rather than just treating existing ones?
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