Researchers are utilizing animal feces, including those from tigers, giraffes, elephants, and other exotic creatures, for a unique purpose beyond disposal. The University of Leicester experts believe that these excrements could uncover groundbreaking medical treatments, particularly in combating antimicrobial-resistant bacteria.
Dr. Andrew Millard from the Becky Mayer Centre for Phage Research at the University of Leicester explained that animal waste harbors numerous phages, viruses that infect and replicate within bacteria. These phages show potential in addressing bacterial infections that have developed resistance to antibiotics.
The rise of antimicrobial-resistant bacteria poses a significant global health threat, potentially causing 10 million deaths annually by 2050 if left unchecked. To aid research efforts, the Leicester team is collecting waste from West Midlands Safari Park and Dudley Zoo to source a variety of phages.
Richard Brown, senior curator at Dudley Zoo, expressed enthusiasm for contributing to the research project, emphasizing the importance of their involvement in advancing global health initiatives. Professor Martha Clokie, co-director of the center, highlighted the goal of expanding their phage collection for future research endeavors.
The Becky Mayer Centre for Phage Research has presented evidence to the House of Commons Science, Innovation, and Technology Select Committee Inquiry, advocating for the application of phages in medicine. Their submissions support the UK government’s 5-year action plan for antimicrobial resistance, which now includes phages as viable alternatives.
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