Bacteriophage Intervention in Pseudomonas aeruginosa-Induced Corneal Ulceration: A Multifaceted Study Assessing Therapeutic Efficacy in Surrogate Bacterial and Animal Models

Introduction: The aim of our study was to learn about the effect of bacteriophages derived from the water of the river Ganga on Pseudomonas-induced corneal ulcer in mice. Pseudomonas aeruginosa poses a significant threat in cases of bacterial keratitis, a condition that severely hampers vision. With variable incidence rates worldwide and increasing antibiotic resistance to Pseudomonas, it is necessary to explore the potential of bacteriophages isolated from Ganga water for treating Pseudomonas aeruginosa-induced keratitis. Material and methods: We used a mouse model for this study. The most potent phages targeting Pseudomonas aeruginosa that demonstrated a broad spectrum of activity against clinical strains were phenotypically and genotypically characterised. Establishing the animal model involved inducing severe keratitis in mice by inoculating them with Pseudomonas aeruginosa. After this, we administered multiple doses of bacteriophages as eye drops, 24 hours after infection. Results: The results yielded significantly improved disease outcomes. The treatment not only preserved the structural integrity and transparency of the infected cornea but also suppressed neutrophil infiltration and bolstered bacterial clearance, as evidenced by histopathological analysis. Conclusion: These findings suggest that bacteriophage therapy can be an effective alternative therapeutic approach for treating antibiotic-resistant infectious keratitis. Also, we can use bacteriophages in combination with antibiotics already in use.