vB_CacS-HV1 as a Novel Pahexavirus Bacteriophage with Lytic and Anti-Biofilm Potential against Cutibacterium acnes

Acne vulgaris is a prevalent chronic inflammatory skin disease, most common in adolescence and often persisting into adulthood, leading to severe physical and psychological impacts. The primary etiological factor is infection. The overuse of antibiotics for acne treatment over recent decades has led to the emergence of antibiotic-resistant strains. In this study, we isolated and characterized a novel bacteriophage, , from saliva samples. The average nucleotide identity analysis indicated that is a new species within the genus, enhancing our understanding of this underexplored group. demonstrates favorable stability, lacks potentially harmful genetic elements (virulence factors, antibiotic resistance genes, transposons, and integrases), and exhibits potent lytic and anti-biofilm activities against at low concentrations. These advantages highlight 's potential as a promising antibacterial agent that could possibly be complementary to antibiotics or other treatments for acne therapy.