A bacteriophage (/ bækˈtɪərioʊfeɪdʒ /), also known informally as a phage (/ ˈfeɪdʒ /), is a virus that infects and replicates within bacteria and archaea. The term is derived from Ancient Greek φαγεῖν (phagein) 'to devour' and bacteria.

4 days ago · Phage biology is the scientific discipline concerned with the study of all biological aspects of bacteriophages (phages), which are viruses that infect bacteria. This...

In this article we describe the roles of phages in different host systems and show how modeling, microscopy, isolation, genomic and metagenomic based approaches have come together to provide unparalleled insights into these small but vital constituents of the microbial world.

Mar 8, 2018 · This review highlights recently discovered unexpected complexities in phage biology, describes a new arsenal of phage genes that help them overcome bacterial defenses, and discusses advances toward documentation of the phage biodiversity on a global scale.

Jun 1, 2003 · Phages have important roles in global ecology and bacterial pathogenicity. These emerging roles, together with the increasing number of recent publications on phage genomics, highlight the need...

Sep 26, 2022 · Bacteriophages, also known as phages, are viruses that infect and replicate only in bacterial cells. They are ubiquitous in the environment and recognized as the earth's most abundant biological agent. They are extremely diverse in …

In this review, we present the current knowledge of phage biology and genetics, focusing on those genetic elements unique to phages. We then discuss current tools for detection and identification of novel phages in mixed samples and highlight some …

Sep 8, 2020 · In this review, we aim to highlight recent advances in phage biology and how a mechanistic understanding of phage–bacteria–host interactions may facilitate the development of novel...

Jan 13, 2025 · Prophages enable viral genome replication without host cell lysis, and often contribute novel and beneficial traits to the host genome. Current phage research predominantly focuses on lytic phages, leaving a significant gap in knowledge regarding prophages, including their biology, diversity, and ecological roles.

Apr 22, 2024 · Under stressful conditions (for example, nutrient limitation, DNA damage, bacterial competition, or secondary phage infection), prophages can actively excise from the genome (referred to as ‘induction’), initiate replication, and lyse their host cells.