4
Acknowledged
Further research needed on long-term phage interactions and optimal engineering strategies
Conclusion
Phages have been used as therapy for over a hundred years, and much of the fundamental science relating to phages is understood. However, there is still more that the global and UK research communities can learn. Further research will be able to establish key issues such as long-term interactions between phages and human hosts and how phages can be engineered to maximum effect, to work alone or in combination with antibiotics. Such research will help hone phage therapeutics and clinical practice. The UK is well placed to conduct this research as it has a number of leading phage research centres and academics, and access to world class genomic sequencing and bioinformatic resources and experts.
Government Response Summary
The government recognised the importance of research into non-traditional therapies like phages and committed to continuing to monitor the AMR clinical and research pipeline. It also stated it would not produce annual reports exclusively on phages but would regularly review the broader 5-year AMR National Action Plan.
Paragraph Reference
48
Government Response
Acknowledged
Government Response
Acknowledged
HM Government
Acknowledged
The government recognises the importance of exploring a range of different approaches to develop a comprehensive response to AMR domestically, internationally and across sectors. The government recognises the importance of research into non-traditional therapies, such as phages, as a potential part of the toolkit for tackling AMR. The government will continue to work with partner organisations to monitor the AMR clinical and research pipeline, including the growing evidence base for phage therapy, in line with the 'One Health' approach to tackling AMR. The government is committed to taking a holistic approach to tackling AMR and is reluctant to prioritise any one technology in terms of funding or reporting. For this reason, the government will not produce annual reports that focus exclusively on phages. The government will, however, regularly review progress in delivering its 5-year AMR NAP 2024 to 2029, which will include, but will not be limited to, phages.
Source
Report
First Report - The antimicrobial potential of bacteriophages
03 Jan 2024
HC 328
Addressee Bodies
Department for Science, Innovation and Technology
Timeline
Recommendation age
2.4 yrs
Report published
03 Jan 2024