Overview of systematic reviews of the effectiveness/ efficacy and toxicity of phage therapy in treating bacterial infections in humans. Protocol for the literature review

Background to the review

Antimicrobial resistance of bacteria causing common infections, such as Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs), is increasing and generating additional health and societal burdens.

While resistance is a natural phenomenon, it has been exacerbated and accelerated by antibiotic use in both human and animals.

While reducing antibiotic use can contribute to reduce the risk of resistance, antibiotics are required to allow modern medical interventions.

Bacteriophages are widely available and have been used for over 100 years. There is a potential in using phage therapy for both common infections and severe infections resistant to mainstream antibiotics, thus “protecting the medicines that protect us” (as stated by WHO “Thirteen urgent health challenges for next decade” 13th January 2020). However, phage therapy has not been tested under modern clinical procedures and regulations in Europe and developing clinical trials of phage therapy is required. The University of Leicester is working on developing clinical trials of phage therapy for UTIs and this overview will contribute to it.