Testing safety and efficacy of phage therapy for the treatment of antibiotic-resistant bacterial infections

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a major global health threat, causing chronic and life-threatening infections that no longer respond to antibiotics. Bacteriophage (phage) therapy offers a promising alternative or complement to antibiotics for these difficult-to-treat infections.

This call supports the development and clinical evaluation of phage-based therapies—either personalised preparations or ready-to-use cocktails—through multinational, multicentre randomised controlled trials. Target pathogens should include those on the WHO priority list or associated with AMR/biofilms, for any clinical indication and route of administration.

Proposals should apply robust trial design, include regulatory engagement, and detail production, diagnostic, and treatment protocols. Participation of SMEs is encouraged, as is the integration of innovative tools (e.g., AI, in silico/in vivo models), FAIR data principles, and social science expertise to ensure patient and societal acceptance.