Research project on the developments surrounding GM bacteriophages

COGEM has commissioned research into the latest developments surrounding genetic modification of bacteriophages. Bacteriophages, the natural enemies of bacteria, are being explored as promising and versatile tools with potential applications in various sectors. Genetic modification of bacteriophages can improve effectiveness, usefulness and safety.

The report provides a comprehensive overview of the current knowledge of bacteriophages, the techniques to genetically modify bacteriophages and the applications of both wild-type and GM phages in various fields. The GM bacteriophages identified in the report are mainly in the development phase. A lack of thorough risk assessment criteria may play a role in this.

The report is titled: Advances in the application of GM phages in research, development and industry.