Beneficial bacteriophages.

Scientists have collected and partially characterized beneficial bacteriophages that could help control Salmonella. The investigators have devised ways to collect, isolate and identify bacteriophages that attack and kill Salmonella strains. Bacteriophages invade bacteria, multiply and eventually rupture bacterial walls, releasing several copies of new phages capable of invading more bacteria. Most phages only attack specific species and strains of bacteria. Knowledge of this host specificity allows specialists in agriculture, medicine and food safety research to apply specific phages to help identify, track, and treat or prevent bacterial infections. The researchers examined the bacterial host specificity of the phages found in swine manure and classified the phages according to their unique sizes and shapes. Information from this research will enable scientists to better understand microbial ecology. They'll use the phages that have been characterized to develop new tools to control Salmonella. Contact: Mike Mclaughlin, USDA-ARS Waste Management and Forage Research, Room 218, R.W. Harned Building, 810 Highway 12 E., Mississippi State, MS 39762. Phone: [phone]. Fax: [phone]. Email: [e-mail].