How it works
Why bacteriophage, not just antibiotics?
Phages are precision antimicrobials. They selectively kill target bacteria while largely sparing the broader microbiome, helping to reduce antimicrobial resistance pressure compared with repeated courses of broad‑spectrum antibiotics. Our BRD program is the first application of the AgriCureX precision‑AMR platform, which we are extending into new phage cocktails and formulations for other high‑value livestock, aquaculture and companion‑animal indications.
How it works – our first product
Our first product candidate is a bacteriophage‑based therapeutic for Bovine Respiratory Disease (BRD), targeting the key bacterial pathogens Mannheimia haemolytica, Pasteurella multocida and Histophilus (BRD‑associated). It is being developed for practical feedlot use, with delivery via intranasal spray and in‑feed formulations to be evaluated in trials.
Lifecycle of a feedlot cattle – where phage can be applied
Why would farmers prefer phages over antibiotics
| Priority | Phages | Antibiotics |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Effectiveness Against Resistant Infections | ✅ Highly effective against AMR strains; adaptable to evolving pathogens | ⚠️ Decreasing efficacy due to widespread resistance |
| 2. Impact on Animal Gut Health & Productivity | ✅ Preserves microbiome; supports feed conversion and growth | ❌ Can disrupt gut flora; may reduce weight gain or milk yield |
| 3. Regulatory Compliance & Withdrawal Periods | ✅ Often no withdrawal period; aligns with residue-free standards | ❌ Requires strict withdrawal; risk of residue violations |
| 4. Cost & Scalability for Herd Use | ⚠️ Currently higher cost; scaling still in development | ✅ Low cost per dose; easy to administer across large herds |
| 5. Ease of Use & Administration | ⚠️ May require strain matching or vet oversight | ✅ Simple dosing; oral or injectable formats widely available |
| 6. Market Access & Export Requirements | ✅ Supports antibiotic-free certification; premium markets | ❌ Risk of export rejection due to antibiotic residues |
| 7. Resistance Management Strategy | ✅ Sustainable long-term solution; co-evolution with bacteria | ❌ Contributes to resistance; limited pipeline of new drugs |
| 8. Regulatory Pathway & Product Availability | ⚠️ Emerging approvals; limited commercial products | ✅ Fully approved; broad product range available |
| 9. Public Perception & ESG Alignment | ✅ Aligns with consumer demand for natural, residue-free meat | ⚠️ Increasing scrutiny over antibiotic use in agriculture |
| 10. Innovation & Future-Proofing | ✅ Positioned for future AMR policy shifts and tech adoption | ❌ Legacy approach; vulnerable to regulatory tightening |