Phage Therapy for American Foulbrood in Honeybees ID: 2016-015

An innovative treatment using phage therapy to combat American Foulbrood (AFB) in honeybee colonies.

Technology Overview

This technology centers on the use of Paenibacillus larvae phages (PL phages) and Brevibacillus laterosporus phages (BL phages) to treat and prevent American Foulbrood, a severe bacterial infection in honeybees. The approach has demonstrated high success rates in both curing active infections and safeguarding at-risk colonies, presenting a viable alternative to traditional antibiotics.

Key Advantages

• 100% success rate in clearing active AFB infections with PL phages
• Effective prevention of infection in at-risk hives
• Reduced environmental impact compared to antibiotic treatments
• No adverse reactions reported, even at high doses

Problems Addressed

• High mortality and disease rates in honeybee colonies affected by AFBEnvironmental contamination and resistance issues associated with antibiotic use
• The need for an organic, bee-friendly treatment option

• Beekeeping and apiculture for both commercial and private sectors
• Environmental conservation efforts focusing on pollinator health
• Organic agriculture requiring pollination without the use of antibiotics

Additional Information

Technology ID: 2016-015
Sell Sheet: Download the Sell Sheet here
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Date Published: 28 March, 2025