Characterization, genome analysis and in vitro activity of a novel phage vB_EcoA_RDN8.1 active against multi‐drug resistant and extensively drug‐resistant biofilm‐forming uropathogenic Escherichia coli isolates, India

Aim We aimed to study host range, stability, genome and antibiofilm activity of a novel phage vB_EcoA_RDN8.1 active against multi‐drug resistant (MDR) and extensively drug‐resistant (XDR) biofilm‐forming uropathogenic Escherichia coli isolates. Methods and Results A novel lytic phage vB_EcoA_RDN8.1 active against UPEC strains resistant to third‐generation cephalosporins, fluoroquinolones, aminoglycosides, imipenem, beta‐lactamase inhibitor combination and polymyxins was isolated from community raw sewage water of Chandigarh. It exhibited a clear plaque morphology and a burst size of 250. In the time‐kill assay, the maximum amount of killing was achieved at MOI 1.0. vB_EcoA_RDN8.1 belongs to the family Autographiviridae, has a genome size of 39.5 kb with a GC content of 51.6%. It was stable over a wide range of temperatures and pH. It was able to inhibit biofilm formation which may be related to an endolysin encoded by ORF 19. Conclusions The vB_EcoA_RDN8.1 is a novel lytic phage that has the potential for inclusion into phage cocktails being developed for the treatment of urinary tract infections (UTIs) caused by highly drug‐resistant UPEC. Significance and Impact of the Study We provide a detailed characterization of a novel lytic Escherichia phage with antibiofilm activity having a potential application against MDR and XDR UPEC causing UTIs.