ShrimpGuard: Development of phage-associated formulation to combat antimicrobial-resistant vibriosis in cultured shrimp

 

Shrimp farming plays an important economic, social and food security role in many developing countries. Antimicrobials have been widely used by farmers to mitigate vibriosis, a bacterial infection devastating the aquaculture industry during cultivation. The constant exposure to antimicrobials and inappropriate waste management have led to substantially increased antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and associated bacterial persistence. The future of antimicrobials lies in the development of innovative bio-sourced molecules.

This project, which is being implemented in Thailand, aims to develop a formulation (ShrimpGuard) that will be a specific bacteria-killing mechanism of bacteriophages and a nonspecific activation of immunity to improve shrimp health. The efficacy will be tested at the laboratory, pilot and hatchery levels to optimize the most effective, environmentally safe and practical protocol of its use, including in settings affected by climate change.

The project emphasizes gender equity and women’s empowerment. It will also include a seminar series with industry, farmers and academics aimed at enhancing awareness and potential solutions for AMR and ShrimpGuard formulation and platform development. This will strengthen a multi-disciplinary and multi-sectoral network for evidence-based AMR policy in Thailand as well as other low- and middle-income countries.

This project is funded through InnoVet-AMR2, a four-year partnership between IDRC and the United Kingdom’s Department of Health and Social Care. The initiative is aimed at reducing the emerging risk that antimicrobial resistance in animals poses to global health and food security.