bacteriófagos

Bacteriophages, commonly known as phages, are viruses that specifically infect and replicate within bacteria. These microscopic entities are among the most abundant biological agents on Earth, with estimates suggesting there are more phages than all other organisms combined. They play crucial roles in bacterial population control and genetic diversity.

Phages consist of genetic material enclosed in a protein capsid, sometimes surrounded by a lipid envelope. Their structure typically includes a head that contains DNA or RNA, and a tail apparatus that helps attach to and inject genetic material into bacterial cells. The infection process begins when phages recognize and bind to specific receptors on bacterial surfaces.

Two primary replication cycles characterize phage biology. The lytic cycle involves phage replication within the host cell, ultimately leading to cell lysis and release of new phage particles. In contrast, the lysogenic cycle involves integration of phage DNA into the bacterial chromosome, where it remains dormant until environmental conditions trigger transition to the lytic cycle.

Bacteriophages have significant ecological importance, influencing bacterial communities in various environments including soil, water, and the human microbiome. They contribute to horizontal gene transfer between bacteria through transduction, facilitating the spread of genetic material including antibiotic resistance genes.

Medical applications of phages have gained renewed interest due to increasing antibiotic resistance. Phage therapy, particularly prominent in Eastern Europe, uses specific phages to treat bacterial infections. Research continues exploring their potential in combating multidrug-resistant pathogens and as alternatives to traditional antibiotics.

Phages are also valuable tools in molecular biology research, serving as models for understanding viral replication, gene regulation, and as vectors in genetic engineering applications. Their specificity and natural abundance make them promising candidates for various biotechnological and therapeutic developments.