Phage-encoded protein PavP modulates Pseudomonas aeruginosa virulence by dual inhibition of growth and pathogenic traits.

ABSTRACT: Pseudomonas aeruginosa, one of the most prevalent pathogens, is notorious for its multidrug resistance, necessitating novel therapeutic strategies. Phage therapy has emerged as a promising alternative treatment strategy, which offers a dual advantage by directly killing bacteria and modulating host-pathogen interactions. Here, we identify PavP (PaoP5_160), a small protein encoded by bacteriophage PaoP5, which exhibits bacteriostatic activity on P. aeruginosa while altering virulence pathways at sub-inhibitory concentrations. Specifically, PavP impairs bacterial motility, enhances biofilm formation, and upregulates type 3 secretion system expression. The global transcriptome analysis shows that PavP modulates multiple pathways which participate in the pathogenicity and cell vitality of host

SUBMITTER: Yang Y 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12482323 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature