Phage Antibiotic Synergism: A Promising Approach for Tackling Emerging Challenge of Antibiotic Resistance

Rekindling attention has been directed towards phage therapy, a technique that utilizes phages to eradicate bacterial infections by targeting specific bacteria. This review delves into the interplay between bacteriophages and antibiotics, with a focus on the emerging concept of phage-antibiotic synergism (PAS). The escalating threat of antibiotic resistance and its advancing mechanisms for resistance development underscore the imperative need for alternative approaches to treat life-threatening infections. Consideration of bacteriophages that can specifically target and eliminate particular bacteria is gaining prominence for the improved treatment of infections. Moreover, the combination of both phages and antibiotics is viewed as a more efficient means of achieving treatment objectives. The observed synergistic effects in phage-antibiotic therapies showcase proficiency in antimicrobial activity, leading to a reduction in the development of microbial resistance towards antibiotics by providing an alternative way for bacterial eradication. Key findings from recent reviews emphasize the diverse mechanisms underlying phage-antibiotic synergism, including bacterial morphological changes, interference with biofilm formation, efflux pumps, increased cell wall permeability, and the potential to overcome antibiotic-resistant strains. Furthermore, this review paper elaborates on the significance of understanding the interaction between phages and antibiotics to enhance therapeutic outcomes along with an effort to shed light on the merits and demerits of this combined therapy. This comprehensive understanding can pave the way for an innovative approach to infectious disease treatment and management.