A novel Escherichia phage against multidrug-resistant hybrid IPEC/ExPEC Escherichia coli.

Abstract

AIMS: In this work, Escherichia coli isolates from pig specimens were investigated for their virulence and drug-resistant profiles. Escherichia phage nasanit was isolated, characterized, and assessed its lytic activity against its host. METHODS AND RESULTS: All tested E. coli isolates were identified as multidrug-resistant hybrid intestinal pathogenic E. coli/extraintestinal pathogenic E. coli (IPEC/ExPEC). The phage exhibited infectivity against E. coli isolates from porcine and bovine specimens by spot testing. Lytic activity assays against its host in simulated intestinal fluid at 39 °C and tryptic soy broth at 30 °C demonstrated a significant reduction in bacterial density at 30 °C. Genomic analysis confirmed the absence of undesirable genes, and comparative genomic analysis suggested that the phage constitutes a novel species within the Berlinvirus genus. CONCLUSION: Escherichia phage nasanit demonstrates potential as a biosanitizing agent for mitigating livestock-associated colibacillosis in swine environments. IMPACT STATEMENT: E. coli isolates harbored both IPEC and ExPEC virulence genes, coupled with a multidrug resistance, posing a significant risk for diverse disease in swine. Escherichia phage nasanit demonstrated lytic activity against pathogenic E. coli associated with swine and bovine diseases. The phage efficacy in eliminating the tested E. coli suggests its potential application for biosanitation in the swine industry.