Research provides new information on the synergy between phage therapies and antibiotics

Antibiotic resistance is a growing global health threat, and new solutions are needed to complement traditional treatments. Phages are part of the human microbiome and play a role in the body’s immune system by binding to mucin glycoproteins in the mucous membranes. Phage therapy is considered promising when used in combination with antibiotics, but the effects of the mucosal environment on treatment efficiency are still poorly understood.

Phages, mucous membranes, and antibiotics are the focus of the research

Researchers from the University of Jyväskylä focus on determining how the condition of the mucous membranes affects the interaction between phages and antibiotics. Many diseases and ageing affect the production of mucins in the mucosal membranes, which influences resistance to bacterial infections. The research project focuses on the Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacterium, which causes difficult-to-treat infections.

- We will investigate how the thinning of the mucous membranes and, on the other hand, increased mucus production affect the protection provided by phages as well as the interaction between phages and antibiotics. To address these questions, we will use bacterial cultures, human epithelial cell lines, and zebrafish of different age groups as model systems, explains Professor Lotta-Riina Sundberg from the University of Jyväskylä, who is leading the project.

The efficacy of phages under pressure

The cell models are based on lines in which the expression of key respiratory mucins has been altered 

- This helps to identify factors that strengthen or weaken the adhesion of phages to mucous membranes, affecting resistance to bacterial infection, says Sundberg.

In addition, the zebrafish model enables a more comprehensive examination of changes related to the ageing of mucous membranes, the effects on the microbiome and phage binding to mucous membranes.

- We anticipate identifying key molecular mechanisms that promote phage–mucus interactions and phage-based external immunity against pathogenic bacteria, specifies Sundberg. 

Toward phage therapy and individually tailored medicine

A better understanding of the mucosal environment is essential in the fight against antibiotic resistance.

- This project combines molecular and cellular-level research with animal models and produces new knowledge to support the development of phage therapies and individual treatment strategies, rejoices Sundberg.

The “Interactions between phages and antibiotics in the mucosal environment (PHAME)” project begins on 1.5.2026, and will last three years.