FAQs

Phage therapy uses bacteriophages, which are naturally occurring viruses that target and eliminate specific bacteria, to treat bacterial infections. At AgriCureX, we develop precision phage therapeutics to address key livestock health challenges such as Bovine Respiratory Disease (BRD). Our work supports farmers in reducing antibiotic use while maintaining productivity and animal welfare.

Yes. Phages have an excellent safety profile because they are highly selective and interact only with their bacterial targets. They do not affect human cells or beneficial microbes. AgriCureX works with leading scientific partners, including Phage Australia and the University of Sydney, to ensure all phages undergo rigorous sequencing, characterisation and safety assessment before use.

Phages cannot survive without their target bacteria. Once the harmful bacteria are removed, the body naturally clears any remaining phages through normal immune processes, including macrophage activity. This ensures that only active, needed phages remain during treatment.

Yes. Humans and animals regularly encounter naturally occurring phages through food, water and the environment. AgriCureX phage therapeutics are designed to be residue free and align with Australia’s strict export and food safety regulations. This supports market access for premium, antibiotic sparing products.

Phages are a highly targeted alternative and can significantly reduce the need for antibiotics, but they are not expected to replace them entirely. AgriCureX develops phage cocktails that complement responsible antibiotic use, vaccination programs and good management practices. This integrated approach ensures the most effective and sustainable response to bacterial disease.

Widespread adoption was historically limited because the tools required to rapidly identify, analyse and formulate phages were not available. Advances in microbiology, genomics and artificial intelligence have now enabled scalable and precise phage development.

Regulatory frameworks are also evolving. Phages are biological in nature, so they require different approval pathways compared to chemical antibiotics. Agencies worldwide are actively developing regulatory processes to support responsible deployment of phage therapeutics as part of global efforts to address antimicrobial resistance.

At present, phage therapy is available only under veterinary prescription for use on farms. AgriCureX is working with the Meat and Livestock Australia (MLA) consortium through a multi year collaboration to accelerate the safe and effective distribution of phage solutions across the livestock sector.