Animal model testing for efficacy and adverse effects of bacteriophages against Acinetobacter baumannii

This study aimed to conduct a detailed study on murine model testing of bacteriophage against Acinetobacter baumannii. These bacteriophages were tested not only for their efficacy in healing wound of murine models infected with multidrug resistant A. baumannii but were also studied for any derangement in hematological parameters as well as liver and kidney function. The study also included any histological changes observed in hepatic and renal tissues of the bacteriophage treated murine animals. This experimental study was conducted at Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Khyber Medical University, Peshawar and Institute of Pure and Applied Biology, Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan. A. baumannii isolates were obtained from the Microbiology Department, Armed Forces Institute of Pathology, Rawalpindi. Antimicrobial susceptibility was done by using standard procedures and as per Clinical Laboratory Standards Institute guidelines. Bacteriophages were isolated from sewage water samples collected from different hospitals in Multan. These bacteriophages were characterized and finally used for treating the murine model and efficacy of phage as a therapeutic option was determined by using superficial rat wound model. In this study, the isolated lytic bacteriophage was effective in relatively faster wound healing of the infected animals. Moreover, there were no significant hematological or renal and hepatic profile changes in treated animals. Histology of renal and hepatic tissues was also normal as compared to control animals. Our study concluded that the isolated phage could serve as an attractive therapeutic candidate to combat the deadly multidrug resistant A. baumannii.

Automated summary

This study conducted a detailed analysis of the testing of bacteriophages against Acinetobacter baumannii using a murine model. The efficacy of these bacteriophages in healing wounds infected with multidrug resistant A. baumannii was assessed, as well as any potential impact on hematological parameters and liver and kidney function. The study also examined histological changes in hepatic and renal tissues of the treated animals. The results showed that the isolated lytic bacteriophage effectively promoted wound healing in the infected animals without causing significant changes in hematological or renal and hepatic profile. Histology of renal and hepatic tissues also remained normal. Overall, the study concluded that the isolated phage could be a promising therapeutic option against the deadly multidrug resistant A. baumannii.