By further classification we would be able to match this phage to specific baterial infections sampled from a patient. By increasing the index of characterized phages, the number of potential phage matches to any given infection increases.
The different subclusters of phage indicate similarity to one another. It is a form of classification, and by identifying the subcluster of McStabberson it can be more accurately matched to a bacteria host.
If we are able to accurately identify a subcluster, we could move onto a variety of tests. One of which we described in our future directions would be to test it on bacteria with LSR2 protein alterations. These alterations prevent most phage from infecting the bacteria when expressed, so this test could serve to see if McStabberson could bypass this.
This research described here will play small role in the big issue of fighting antibiotic resistant bacteria. By adding another phage to the data base of phages, it increases the chances that medical researchers could find a match to any given bacterial infection found in a patient. Phages are a great alternative to antibiotics because they can kill a bacteria and bypass this resistance that bacteria are developing. This will benefit everyone alive today because of the threat antibiotic resistant bacteria present.
How do you feel the classification of McStabberson would be useful for future research?
By further classification we would be able to match this phage to specific baterial infections sampled from a patient. By increasing the index of characterized phages, the number of potential phage matches to any given infection increases.
What is the difference between the A1 and the B7 subcluster?
The different subclusters of phage indicate similarity to one another. It is a form of classification, and by identifying the subcluster of McStabberson it can be more accurately matched to a bacteria host.
if you identification of the McStabberson cluster is accurate, what are some next steps you think should be taken?
If we are able to accurately identify a subcluster, we could move onto a variety of tests. One of which we described in our future directions would be to test it on bacteria with LSR2 protein alterations. These alterations prevent most phage from infecting the bacteria when expressed, so this test could serve to see if McStabberson could bypass this.
Why is this research important – what problem is it addressing? Who will it benefit?
This research described here will play small role in the big issue of fighting antibiotic resistant bacteria. By adding another phage to the data base of phages, it increases the chances that medical researchers could find a match to any given bacterial infection found in a patient. Phages are a great alternative to antibiotics because they can kill a bacteria and bypass this resistance that bacteria are developing. This will benefit everyone alive today because of the threat antibiotic resistant bacteria present.