Workshop: Exploring the Use of Bacteriophages for Global Health
Overview
The Global AMR R&D Hub convened a high-level expert workshop in Berlin to explore the potential of bacteriophages (phages) as a tool to tackle antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and infectious disease burden, including in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). The event brought together experts, including clinical and research scientists, drug developers, regulators and funders to evaluate the current landscape of phage therapy and outline practical steps to advance its development and implementation.
Why It Matters
Phages are gaining renewed interest as a complementary or alternative strategy to antibiotics—especially for infections where treatment options are limited. However, challenges remain across the clinical, regulatory, manufacturing, and economic landscape. This workshop aimed to move the conversation from potential to practical solutions and contribute to ongoing efforts to explore the potential of phages in advancing public health.
Key Principles
- Evidence first, scale later, but design trials that can scale
- Regulation is a dialogue, not a hurdle
- Multiple tools within one phage toolbox-personalized, cocktails, sequential and synergistic use with antibiotics will all be needed.
- Equity cannot be an afterthought-LMICs should be co-designers, not downstream recipients
Outcomes and Next Steps
A workshop report has been generated capturing consensus around a multi-pronged, inclusive approach to phage development and deployment. It offers recommendations for diverse stakeholders—from product developers and regulators to policymakers and funders—emphasising early engagement, co-development, and the importance of embedding phage efforts within broader AMR and One Health strategies.
Acknowledgments
We are grateful to all workshop participants for generously sharing their expertise, insights, and time in support of this dialogue. Special thanks go to the organizing committee and partner institutions for fostering a constructive and inclusive environment. We also thank the Global Antibiotic Research & Development Partnership − GARDP (Dr. Manica Balsegaram, Dr. Seamus O’Brien and Prof. Laura Piddock) for initiating this conversation and providing financial support for the workshop.
For further information contact us: globalamrhub@dzif.de
