Bystander Phage Therapy for American Foulbrood ID: 2018-037

An innovative approach leveraging phage-induced toxins to combat American Foulbrood in honeybees.

Technology Overview

This technology utilizes phages targeting the non-pathogenic bacterium Brevibacillus laterosporus to induce a toxin that effectively kills Paenibacillus larvae, the bacteria responsible for American Foulbrood (AFB). Developed by researchers at Brigham Young University, this method, known as "Bystander Phage Therapy," offers a novel solution to AFB by focusing on a bactericidal toxin produced by a bacterium naturally occurring in the bee environment.

Key Advantages

• Targets the causative agent of AFB without harming beneficial bacteria or the bees themselves
• Reduces reliance on traditional antibiotics, mitigating the risk of antibiotic resistance
• Provides a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to chemical treatments
• Successfully clears active infections in a significant percentage of treated hives

Problems Addressed

• Addresses the challenge of treating American Foulbrood without damaging the bee population
• Offers a solution to the issue of antibiotic resistance in treating bee diseases
• Solves the problem of residual chemical treatments affecting honey quality and bee health
• Provides an effective treatment for active AFB infections, with a high success rate

Market Applications

• Beekeeping and apiculture for the treatment and prevention of AFB
• Development of biotechnological tools and products for bee health
• Environmental conservation efforts focusing on pollinator health and preservation
• Potentially broader applications in biocontrol of bacterial infections in other agricultural contexts

Additional Information

Technology ID: 2018-037
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Date Published: 28 March, 2025