BACKGROUND
Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI) and its associated enteric disease caused by Clostridium perfringens, remain major drivers of morbidity, mortality, and healthcare expenditure. These pathogens persist due to antibiotic-mediated dysbiosis, high recurrence rates, and the limited durability of existing therapeutic options. In livestock systems, C. perfringens and other enteric pathogens continue to cause necrotic enteritis and significant performance losses at a time when producers and regulators are actively reducing antibiotic use. This shift has created a critical gap for targeted, mechanism-driven biologic interventions that provide more than generic probiotic support and can deliver durable, pathogen-specific control.
SUMMARY OF TECHNOLOGY
Oklahoma State University researchers have developed an innovative platform using engineered E. coli Nissle 1917 to deliver bacteriophage-derived endolysins directly in the gut for targeted pathogen suppression without antibiotics. These biotherapeutic strains modular design allows switching of endolysin sequences to target various pathogenic bacteria such as Clostridioides difficile, offering a precise, localized, and safer alternative to traditional antibiotics and phage therapy. The system minimizes gastrointestinal disruption and reduces risks associated with antibiotic resistance with adaptability to both human health and animal livestock applications.
POTENTIAL AREAS OF APPLICATION
MAIN ADVANTAGES
STAGE OF DEVELOPMENT
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