Start of funding 01.07.2026

Host-context-aware prediction if phage receptor usage to improve page therapy

Prof. Dr. Carolin Wendling
Ludwig-Maximilians-University of Munich
Max von Pettenkofer Institut - Med. Mikrobiologie und KH-Hygiene

Prof. Dr. Vivek Mutalik
Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory
Bioscineces



Phage therapy is currently one of the most promising alternatives for combating antibiotic-resistant bacterial infections. In this research project, we aim to investigate the molecular mechanisms of phage-host interactions to optimise therapeutic efficacy. We have previously shown that phage-host interactions can be highly context-dependent, which means that successful phage infections depend on the presence of the corresponding receptor on the bacterial host cell. Building on that, we now aim to elucidate how variability in bacterial surface structures influences the binding and infection success of therapeutic phages. To do so, we will use a novel combination of AI-based machine learning models and high-throughput systematic experimental validation. Our results will inform clinicians to better predict infection outcomes and accurately select the most effective phages.