T4 bacteriophage

T4 bacteriophage is a type of virus that specifically targets and infects bacteria, particularly Escherichia coli (E. coli). It is shaped like a spacecraft, with a unique structure containing a head filled with genetic material and tail fibers used to attach to bacterial cells. Once attached, T4 injects its DNA into the bacteria, hijacking the bacterial machinery to produce new phage particles, ultimately leading to the bacteria's destruction. T4 is significant in research for studying viruses and can potentially be used in phage therapy to treat bacterial infections, especially those resistant to antibiotics.