ANTIBACTERIAL EFFICACY OF BACTERIOPHAGES AGAINST VIBRIO CHOLERAE

Abstract

This study investigates the use of bacteriophages as an alternative antibacterial approach to combat antibiotic-resistant Vibrio cholerae, a major public health concern. Vibrio cholerae strains were identified through culture on TCBS agar, microscopy, and biochemical tests (catalase, oxidase, indole, and citrate). Antibiotic susceptibility was assessed using the Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method across five antibiotics: tetracycline, norfloxacin, ampicillin, ciprofloxacin, and erythromycin. Results showed resistance to ampicillin, tetracycline, and erythromycin, while strains remained susceptible to norfloxacin and ciprofloxacin Five bacteriophages against Vibrio cholerae were isolated from 50 wastewater samples, and only two (F1 and F2) showed lytic activity, forming clear plaques. These two lytic phages were further purified and characterized for stability across different temperatures, pH levels, and host range. The isolated phages were tested for host range against six Vibrio cholerae strains, with F1 lysing five strains and F2 lysing three, and demonstrated stability across temperatures (20°C to 55°C) and pH levels (4 to 9). They remained active across a wider temperature and pH range demonstrating their potential for therapeutic use. The study shows that these phages are highly specific, targeting only Vibrio cholerae strains from various sources without affecting other bacterial species. This specificity makes them safer for therapeutic use, as they are less likely to disrupt the body’s natural bacterial flora. Further genomic studies are recommended to characterize the genetic makeup of these phages, optimizing their application in cholera treatment. This study provides critical insights into the potential of bacteriophages as an alternative treatment for antibiotic-resistant Vibrio cholerae.