What is a bacteriophage?

A bacteriophage is specifically defined as a virus that infects bacteria. These viruses are unique in their structure and function, having evolved specifically to target bacterial cells. When a bacteriophage encounters a suitable bacterial host, it attaches itself to the surface of the bacterium, injects its genetic material into the host, and hijacks the host's cellular machinery to produce new virus particles. This process often results in the destruction of the bacterial cell, a phenomenon known as lysis.

The importance of bacteriophages extends beyond their role in the life cycle of bacteria; they are also useful in scientific research and have potential applications in phage therapy to combat antibiotic-resistant bacterial infections. This highlights their significance in both ecology and medicine.