safety by nature depictionsafety by nature depiction

Intralytix, Inc.

is focused on the discovery, production and marketing of bacteriophage-based products to control bacterial pathogens in environmental, food processing, and medical settings.
bacteriophage depiction
bacteriophage depiction
bacteriophage depiction
bacteriophage depiction
bacteriophage depiction
bacteriophage depiction
Bacteriophages (bacteria-eater: from the Greek phago meaning "to eat" or "to develop at the expense of") are the most abundant microorganisms on earth. They are natural enemies of disease causing bacteria. Lytic bacteriophages can very effectively kill their targeted specific bacteria without affecting the rest of the microbiome, ensuring an unprecedented level of safety for an antimicrobial.
 

Frequently Asked

What is a bacteriophage?

A bacteriophage (also known as a phage) is a type of virus that infects and replicates within bacteria. Bacteriophages are composed of a nucleic acid molecule (DNA or RNA) surrounded by a protein coat, and they are specific to certain types of bacteria.

Bacteriophages are found in many different environments, including soil, water, and the human gut. They play a significant role in the natural balance of bacteria in these environments and can be used as a tool to control bacterial infections in humans.

How do bacteriophages work?

Bacteriophages work by attaching to the surface of a bacterial cell and injecting their genetic material into the cell. The phage's genetic material then takes over the machinery of the bacterial cell, replicating itself and eventually causing the cell to burst and release new phages. This process is known as the lytic cycle, and it can lead to the rapid destruction of the bacterial population.

Bacteriophages have been studied for their potential use as antimicrobial agents, and some have been developed into phage therapies for the treatment of bacterial infections that are resistant to traditional antibiotics.

Do bacteriophages pose any risks to human health?

No, bacteriophages are non-pathogenic to humans. They exhibit strict host specificity, targeting only bacterial cells, rendering them a safe therapeutic option.

Bacteriophages are poised to play a pivotal role in addressing the challenge of antibiotic-resistant pathogens. Their capacity to target specific bacteria offers a novel therapeutic strategy.