Anionic Synthetic Polymers Prevent Bacteriophage Infection

Bioprocessing and biotechnology exploit microorganisms (such as bacteria) for the production of chemicals, biologics, therapies, and food. A major unmet challenge is that bacteriophage (phage) contamination compromises products and necessitates shut-downs and extensive decontamination using nonspecific disinfectants. Here we demonstrate that poly(acrylic acid) prevents phage-induced killing of bacterial hosts, prevents phage replication, and that induction of recombinant protein expression is not affected by the presence of the polymer. Poly(acrylic acid) was more active than poly(methacrylic acid), and poly(styrenesulfonate) had no activity showing the importance of the carboxylic acids. Initial evidence supported a virustatic, not virucidal, mechanism of action. This simple, low-cost, mass-produced additive offers a practical, scalable, and easy to implement solution to reduce phage contamination.

Automated summary

Bioprocessing and biotechnology rely on microorganisms for the production of various products. However, phage contamination poses a significant challenge. In this study, we found that poly(acrylic acid) can prevent phage-induced killing and replication of bacteria without affecting recombinant protein expression. This simple and cost-effective additive offers a practical solution to reduce phage contamination.