Bacteriophage-Based Strategies To Control Pathogenic Escherichia Coli In Humans And Animals

Escherichia coli is a bacterial species with the ability to cause a wide spectrum of diseases among humans and other animals. A great deal of research has been conducted to find ways to control this diffuse group of pathogens. Such research has accelerated recently with the understanding that the overuse of antibiotics has contributed to a rapid increase in the spread of multidrug resistant bacteria. Additionally, in some cases (i.e. treatment of Shiga-toxin-producing E. coli infections), antibiotic treatment is contraindicated, necessitating the development of alternative treatment strategies. This review explores the use of bacteriophages (phages) as a biocontrol strategy, and their potential to treat E. coli infections in humans and food animals.