Research project Biocontrol of bacterial cankers in cherry using phage therapy

General introduction

To what extent can bacteria-eating viruses (bacteriophages) help suppress harmful bacteria in fruit crops? In fruit growing, the so-called bacterial canker or Pseudomonas disease has long been known to cause major yield losses. With a focus on cherry cultivation, this PhD project is working on an innovative control strategy of Pseudomonas infections, particularly those caused by P. syringae pv. syringae and/or P. syringae pv. morsprunorum. This study focuses on on biocontrol using bacteriophages. These are massively naturally occurring (beneficial) viruses that can kill certain bacteria very specifically and in a targeted manner. The research is a collaboration between the ILVO bacteriology lab and the KULeuven Lab for Gene Technology.

Research approach

We map the Pseudomonas population in Flemish cherry orchards. We evaluate the effectiveness of currently available and new phage cocktails.... We try to improve the persistence and efficacy of phages when applied in open fields. One means to this end is to enable the phages in question to adapt to field conditions through targeted "training". In addition, we are committed to the optimization of phage formulations and efficient ways to distribute formulated phages throughout the orchard (e.g., via insect vectors).

Relevance/Valorization

Crop protection against bacterial diseases has mainly relied on the use of copper-based pesticides. However, with growing concerns about bacterial resistance and the harmful effects of such pesticides on human health and the environment, alternative and more sustainable crop protection strategies, such as phage therapy, are urgently needed and highly relevant.