https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3270-3205
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Abstract
Bdellovibrio bacteriovorus is a small Deltaproteobacterium which, since its discovery, has distinguished itself for the unique ability to prey on other Gram-negative bacteria. The studies on this particular “predatory bacterium”, have gained momentum in response to the rising problem of antibiotic resistance, because it could be applied as a potential probiotic and antibiotic agent. Hereby, we present recent advances in the study of B. bacteriovorus, comprehending fundamental aspects of its biology, obligatory intracellular life cycle, predation resistance, and potential applications. Furthermore, we discuss studies that pave the road towards the use of B. bacteriovorus as a “living antibiotic” in human therapy, focussing on its interaction with biofilms, the host immune response, predation susceptibility and in vivo application models. The available data imply that it will be possible to upgrade this predator bacterium from a predominantly academic interest to an instrument that could confront antibiotic resistant infections.
Disclosure statement
The authors report no conflicts of interest.
Geolocation information
University Medical Centre Groningen. Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ Groningen, Netherlands. 050 361 6161/+31 50 361 6161. http://www.umcg.nl/. Geological coordinates: 53.2218504°N, 6.5760631°E.
Author contributions
FMC, CG and JMvD conceived and designed the review. FMC and LJ drafted, and AWF, CG and JMvD critically revised the manuscript. All authors have read and approved the final version.