Introduction: Antibiotic-resistant bacteria are an emerging threat to global health security. Despite the effectiveness of antibiotics in treating bacterial infections, they can lead to adverse effects such as allergic reactions and antibiotic resistance (AMR). AMR represents a significant global challenge, particularly considering the increased use of antibiotics during the COVID-19 pandemic. According to the 2019 Antibiotic Resistance Threats Report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), this issue results in approximately 1.27 million deaths annually worldwide. Due to the limited availability of effective antibiotics, alternative strategies are urgently needed to overcome AMR. Recently, it has been demonstrated that passive immunization through oral, intranasal, and topical administration of IgY antibodies—derived from the egg yolks of immunized hens—can effectively treat bacterial infections in both animals and humans.
Methods: A comprehensive review of the scientific literature was conducted using databases such as Frontiers, PubMed, Elsevier, and MDPI, focusing on studies published within the past five years. Articles were selected based on their relevance, accuracy, and contribution to understanding the role of IgY in combating antibiotic resistance.
Results: IgY antibodies are effective in neutralizing bacterial pathogens by binding to surface antigens and preventing bacterial adhesion to host cells. IgY can directly attach to bacterial surface antigens or virulence factors, thereby weakening bacterial defenses and rendering them more susceptible to antibiotics. IgY technology enables the development of highly specific antibodies against a wide range of antigens, including bacteria, viruses, and even bacterial enzymes such as beta-lactamases that can inactivate antibiotics. Studies indicate that IgY antibodies can inhibit bacterial adhesion, neutralize toxins, and disrupt biofilm formation, all of which are crucial factors in bacterial pathogenesis. Compared to IgG antibodies, IgY offers greater cost-effectiveness and safety, as it does not trigger harmful immune responses and, in some cases, can modulate the immune response to prevent tissue damage.
Conclusion: These antibodies represent a promising new approach to targeting antibiotic-resistant bacteria through passive immunization. Beyond their potential broad application against human pathogens, IgY-based strategies may also significantly reduce social and healthcare burdens in the coming years.