Zoo Poo Could Unlock New Medical Treatments Through Phage Research

Scientists at the University of Leicester are exploring how animal waste, such as the feces of tigers, elephants, giraffes, and other exotic animals, might contain vital clues for developing innovative medical therapies. This research centers on discovering bacteriophages—viruses that specifically target bacteria—that naturally exist in animal feces. These phages have enormous potential to combat bacterial infections, especially those resistant to current antibiotics.

Antimicrobial resistance poses a significant and growing global health challenge, with superbugs rendering many conventional treatments ineffective. If left unchecked, it’s estimated that by 2050, resistant bacteria could cause up to 10 million deaths annually. Bacteriophages offer a promising alternative because they are viruses that exclusively infect bacteria, making them powerful allies against life-threatening infections.

The research team, based at The Becky Mayer Center for Phage Research at the University of Leicester, partnered with West Midlands Safari Park and Dudley Zoo to source animal waste samples. Dr. Andrew Millard, a co-leader of the center, explained that since phages are found where bacteria are abundant—such as in animal feces—these samples are ideal for hunting new phage candidates.

Initially, the collaboration was uncertain, but the science behind it convinced the zoo partners, who provided stool samples from over 160 animal species. Richard Brown, Senior Curator at Dudley Zoo, expressed enthusiasm about contributing to global health efforts through this unconventional method. Similarly, Katie McDonald from WMSP highlighted that this project exemplifies how animal conservation and biodiversity efforts can directly support medical research.

The initiative aims to build a large biobank of phages, targeting up to 10,000 different types within two years, to develop new treatments for urinary tract infections, skin infections, and respiratory issues. Researchers believe that this approach not only benefits human health but could also aid in treating infections in animals. Experts have provided evidence supporting the potential of phages in medicine to government bodies, emphasizing their viability as alternatives to antibiotics.

This innovative research underscores the value of animal conservation in discovering new therapeutic options and highlights the importance of exploring natural sources for combating antibiotic-resistant bacteria.