Nashrieh Shimi va Mohandesi Shimi Iran

Nashrieh Shimi va Mohandesi Shimi Iran

Application of Bacteriophages in Control of Corrosive Bacteria and Their Biofilms in Water Systems

Document Type : Review Article

Authors
Rouha Kasra Kermanshahi 1
Nayyereh Alimadadi 2
Ebrahim Heshmat Dehkordi 3
1 Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Alzahra University, Tehran, IR. IRAN
2 Department of Biology, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, IR. IRAN
3 Iranian Corrosion Association, Tehran, Iran
Abstract
Microbially influenced corrosion is the result of complex interactions between different species of microorganisms, especially in the form of biofilms, which occur in aquatic environments, including engineered systems such as drinking water and wastewater systems. The stability of biofilms against biocides and other conventional methods is considered a major challenge in the effective management of biocorrosion. Therefore, the present study investigates the application of bacteriophages as a novel and specific biological method to combat corrosive bacteria and remove their biofilms, and its challenges, solutions, and future prospects. The findings show that phages are capable of destroying the biofilm structure through selective lysis of bacterial cells, production of enzymes such as depolymerase and endolysin, and interference with quorum sensing systems. Features such as biocompatibility, in situ self-replication, genetic engineering capability, and adaptability to physical and chemical methods have provided a special position for phages in corrosion control. Strategies such as the use of polyvalent phages, genetically modified phages, phage cocktails, coated or immobilized phages, as well as combined treatment with chemical and physical methods and nanoparticles, have been proposed as approaches to enhance effectiveness. The results of this study indicate that the use of bacteriophages, especially in the form of combined and targeted treatments, can play a role as an alternative or complement to traditional methods in managing biocorrosion and maintaining the stability of natural and industrial aquatic systems. Establishing industrial production infrastructure, standardizing application methods, and developing regulatory frameworks for assessing biosafety and environmental impacts are among the critical needs for moving from the research stage to industrial exploitation. Although much research needs to be completed before the commercialization and widespread application of phage technology, the future of these methods looks very promising.
Keywords
Bacteria
Biofilm
Microbially influenced corrosion
Genetically modified phages
Biocontrol

Subjects

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