Bdellovibrio bacteria are predators of gram-negative pathogens such as Salmonella spp, Shigella spp, and E. coli. This predatory behavior makes them a novel biological control agent against harmful bacteria that can cause foodborne illnesses and infections. By targeting and consuming these pathogens, Bdellovibrio can reduce their population in various environments, such as in agricultural settings or within food products.
Additionally, unlike traditional antibiotics, Bdellovibrio may offer a more sustainable solution to combating bacterial infections and antibiotic resistance. Since they attack only specific targets, the surrounding beneficial gut microbiota or other flora remain unharmed. This specificity minimizes the risk of disrupting ecological balances, which is a significant issue with broad-spectrum antibiotics.
In summary, using Bdellovibrio bacteria could provide a unique and effective method to control harmful gram-negative bacteria, contributing to safer food supplies and reducing reliance on chemical antimicrobial agents.