Pseudomonas aeruginosa can enter a temporary "stealth mode" to evade pili-targeting phages

McMaster University researchers report in mBio (published March 30, 2026) that Pseudomonas aeruginosa can evade phage attack by entering a temporary "stealth mode". Of 28 phage-resistant mutants studied, one regained full pili function in almost half of 100 test samples once phages were removed, which the team says could lead to recurring infections after treatment ends.