Isolation, Culture, and Characterization of Bacteriophages

Bacteriophages (phages) are viruses that infect bacteria. Phages are the most abundant biological entities on Earth, and have influential effects on every ecosystem. Phage genomes represent a vast gene pool from which bacteria can draw upon for rapid evolution. Since the co-discovery of phages in 1915 by Frederick Twort and 1917 by Felix d'Herelle, their potential as subjects of laboratory research has been exploited to great effect. Phage research has resulted in important strides in biology, from the elucidation of the function of DNA and the discovery of messenger RNA to the study of basic molecular interactions and genetic regulation. These fascinatingly simple and diverse entities are also valuable as diagnostic tools, genetic screening vectors, and potential therapeutics. This article provides an overview of techniques essential for entering the world of bacteriophage study, and contains protocols for the propagation, maintenance, storage, and basic characterization of phages. Curr. Protoc. Essential Lab. Tech. 7:4.4.1-4.4.33. © 2013 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.