The Israeli Phage Therapy Center (IPTC) of the Hebrew University and Hadassah has named a newly discovered phage in memory of Maj. Gen. (res.) Raz Abulafia, who fell in battle during the War of the Iron Swords. The phage was discovered by Sigal Vorzhev, Raz's life partner and a researcher at the lab. The Center, dedicated to combating antibiotic-resistant bacteria, has been naming new phages after fallen heroes from the conflict. Sigal named the phage KpRaz1 in tribute to Raz. If KpRaz1 proves effective in treating bacterial infections, it could one day save lives - ensuring that Raz's legacy lives on through medical innovation.

 

Fighting Superbugs While Preserving Memory

Sigal Vorzhev, under the guidance of Prof. Ronen Hazan and doctoral student Ortal Yerushalmy from the Faculty of Dental Medicine, found a unique way to honor her beloved’s memory. As part of her biotechnology studies at the IPTC, she is combining personal loss with cutting-edge scientific work. Together with her research partner, Shira Meuchas-Heilbron, she isolates and studies phages - viruses that specifically target and destroy bacteria.

 

KpRaz1 Phage | Credit: Edi Bernstein, Electron Microscopy Unit, Interdepartmental Equipment, Ein Kerem Campus of the Hebrew University.

 

Prof. Avraham Zini, Dean of the Faculty of Dental Medicine, praised the initiative: “This effort embodies the intersection of scientific innovation and deep personal tribute. Through Sigal’s and Shira’s work, we not only advance the fight against antibiotic-resistant bacteria but also ensure that the legacy of fallen heroes continues in a meaningful and life-saving way.”

 

“This effort embodies the intersection of scientific innovation and deep personal tribute. Through Sigal’s and Shira’s work, we not only advance the fight against antibiotic-resistant bacteria but also ensure that the legacy of fallen heroes continues in a meaningful and life-saving way.” - Prof. Avraham Zini

 

The IPTC has isolated and characterized hundreds of phages, developing new tools to fight suberbugs. Traditionally, new phages are named after scientists, historical figures, or loved ones of the researchers. Following the events of October 7 and the outbreak of war, the Center began naming some phages in memory of fallen soldiers and civilians, including Alon Shimriz, Yanai Kaminka, and Arnon Zmora - ensuring their legacies endure through science.

 

A Tribute With Future Impact

Sigal, who has already isolated several phages during her research, chose to name one of them KpRaz1 in memory of Raz, who was killed in northern Gaza. “Naming this phage after Raz is my way of honoring his memory - not only as a soldier and leader but as someone who dedicated his life to protecting others,” she shared. “If KpRaz1 can one day help save lives, it will be a tribute worthy of him.”

 

“Naming this phage after Raz is my way of honoring his memory—not only as a soldier and leader but as someone who dedicated his life to protecting others. If KpRaz1 can one day help save lives, it will be a tribute worthy of him.”  - Sigal Vorzhev 

 

This tribute is not just symbolic. If KpRaz1 matches a patient's bacterial infection, it could become a life-saving treatment, continuing Raz Abulafia's legacy of service in a new and profound way.

 

For a century, the Hebrew University of Jerusalem has been a beacon for visionary minds who challenge norms and shape the future. Founded by luminaries like Albert Einstein, who entrusted his intellectual legacy to the University, it is dedicated to advancing knowledge, fostering leadership, and promoting diversity. Home to over 23,000 students from 90 countries, the Hebrew University drives much of Israel’s civilian scientific research, with over 11,000 patents and groundbreaking contributions recognized by nine Nobel Prizes, two Turing Awards, and a Fields Medal. Ranked 81st globally by the Shanghai Ranking (2024), it celebrates a century of excellence in research, education, and innovation. To learn more about the University’s academic programs, research, and achievements, visit the official website at http://new.huji.ac.il/en.