Cells' Surprising Diet: Bacteria-Killing Viruses for Health Boost

A study published in PLOS Biology suggests that mammalian cells may internalize bacteriophages (viruses that kill bacteria) as a resource to promote cellular growth and survival. Researchers found that the phages triggered signaling pathway events that promote cellular growth and survival without activating DNA-mediated inflammatory pathways. Further studies are needed to understand why cells use phage particles as resources and whether they have evolved to benefit from this internalization. This research provides insights into the potential benefits of bacteriophages on mammalian hosts and has implications for fields such as immunology, phage therapy, microbiome, and human health.