Thesis Abstract

Abstract
The rise of antibiotic resistance poses a significant threat to public health worldwide, necessitating innovative approaches to combat this issue. Bacteriophages, viruses that infect and kill bacteria, have emerged as potential alternatives to traditional antibiotics. This thesis explores the role of bacteriophages in controlling antibiotic-resistant bacteria, with a focus on their mechanisms of action, effectiveness, and potential applications in clinical settings. Chapter One provides an introduction to the topic, including the background of the study, problem statement, objectives, limitations, scope, significance, structure of the thesis, and definition of key terms. Chapter Two presents a comprehensive literature review, covering ten key aspects related to bacteriophages, antibiotic resistance, and their interplay. Chapter Three delves into the research methodology, detailing the experimental design, sample collection, phage isolation and characterization, bacterial susceptibility testing, and data analysis methods. Additionally, it discusses ethical considerations and potential challenges encountered during the research process. Chapter Four presents a detailed discussion of the findings, including the efficacy of different bacteriophages against antibiotic-resistant bacteria, mechanisms of phage action, factors influencing phage activity, and potential strategies to enhance phage therapy outcomes. The chapter also addresses the implications of these findings for future research and clinical practice. Finally, Chapter Five offers a conclusion and summary of the thesis, highlighting the key findings, implications, limitations, and recommendations for further research. This abstract encapsulates the significance of bacteriophages as a promising approach in combating antibiotic resistance and underscores the importance of continued exploration and utilization of phage therapy in clinical settings.

Thesis Overview

The project titled "Exploring the role of bacteriophages in controlling antibiotic-resistant bacteria" aims to investigate the potential of bacteriophages as a novel approach to combat antibiotic-resistant bacteria. With the rise of antibiotic resistance posing a significant threat to public health globally, alternative strategies are urgently needed to address this critical issue. Bacteriophages, or viruses that infect and kill bacteria, have emerged as promising candidates for the development of new antimicrobial agents. The research will delve into the mechanisms through which bacteriophages can target and eliminate antibiotic-resistant bacteria. By understanding the interactions between bacteriophages and their bacterial hosts, insights can be gained into how bacteriophages can effectively disrupt bacterial growth and survival. This exploration will involve laboratory experiments to characterize specific bacteriophages and their activity against a range of antibiotic-resistant bacterial strains. Furthermore, the project will investigate the potential synergistic effects of combining bacteriophages with conventional antibiotics to enhance their antibacterial activity. By assessing the efficacy of bacteriophage-antibiotic combinations, the research aims to provide valuable data on how these two antimicrobial agents can work together to overcome antibiotic resistance and improve treatment outcomes. The research overview will also encompass an evaluation of the safety and specificity of bacteriophages as therapeutic agents. Understanding the potential risks associated with bacteriophage therapy and elucidating the factors that influence their selectivity towards pathogenic bacteria are crucial aspects of this investigation. By addressing these important considerations, the project seeks to contribute to the development of bacteriophage-based therapies that are both effective and safe for clinical use. In summary, the project "Exploring the role of bacteriophages in controlling antibiotic-resistant bacteria" represents a comprehensive investigation into the potential of bacteriophages as a novel strategy to combat antibiotic resistance. Through a multidisciplinary approach that integrates microbiology, molecular biology, and antimicrobial pharmacology, this research aims to advance our understanding of bacteriophage biology and their application as alternative antimicrobial agents.