Targeted suppression of human IBD-associated gut microbiota commensals by phage consortia for treatment of intestinal inflammation

Human gut commensals are increasingly suggested to impact non-communicable diseases, such as inflam-matory bowel diseases (IBD), yet their targeted suppression remains a daunting unmet challenge. In four geographically distinct IBD cohorts (n = 537), we identify a clade of Klebsiella pneumoniae (Kp) strains, featuring a unique antibiotics resistance and mobilome signature, to be strongly associated with disease exacerbation and severity. Transfer of clinical IBD-associated Kp strains into colitis-prone, germ-free, and colonized mice enhances intestinal inflammation. Stepwise generation of a lytic five-phage combination, tar-geting sensitive and resistant IBD-associated Kp clade members through distinct mechanisms, enables effective Kp suppression in colitis-prone mice, driving an attenuated inflammation and disease severity. Proof-of-concept assessment of Kp-targeting phages in an artificial human gut and in healthy volunteers demonstrates gastric acid-dependent phage resilience, safety, and viability in the lower gut. Collectively, we demonstrate the feasibility of orally administered combination phage therapy in avoiding resistance, while effectively inhibiting non-communicable disease-contributing pathobionts.

Automated summary

A clade of Klebsiella pneumoniae strains has been found to be strongly associated with exacerbation and severity of inflammatory bowel diseases. By generating a lytic five-phage combination targeting these strains, effective suppression of the bacteria and attenuation of inflammation can be achieved.