Formulation strategies for bacteriophage delivery: exploring polymer-based systems

Abstract

The rise of multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacterial infections poses a significant threat to global public health, highlighting the urgent need for alternative therapeutic strategies. Bacteriophage (phage) therapy has emerged as a promising approach due to its specificity in targeting and eliminating antibiotic-resistant bacteria. However, the stability and environmental susceptibility of phages limit their effectiveness. As a result, the encapsulation of phages within polymeric systems has been explored to enhance their stability, bioavailability, and provide sustained release at infection sites.

This thesis reviews various formulation strategies for phage delivery, including the use of microparticles, hydrogels, and nanofibers, aimed at protecting phages during formulation, improving their storage stability, and sustaining antimicrobial activity. It further investigates bacteriophage hydrogel formulations and dry powder formulations using natural polymers or the synthetic polymer PLGA, respectively.