Researchers from Near East University and La Trobe University in Australia have identified a completely new bacteriophage species, named “Alasiavirus”, isolated from a natural pond on the Near East University campus. The virus belongs to a previously unidentified genus, and its full DNA sequence has been completed. The name Alasiavirus is inspired by Alasia, the ancient name of Cyprus.

The newly discovered bacteriophage, NEU2023, along with NEU2024, has shown effectiveness against Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a bacterium known for causing severe infections and developing resistance to multiple antibiotics. These bacteriophages represent a promising alternative treatment for patients with weakened immune systems affected by antibiotic-resistant infections.

The bacteriophages have been registered in the US National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) database and officially entered the global scientific literature, opening new avenues for research in combating resistant bacterial infections.

More Information: https://neu.edu.tr/yakin-dogu-universitesinden-tarihi-kesif-alasiavirus/?lang=en