Largest Genetic Study of Staphylococcus Aureus Reveals Key Survival Mechanisms

Researchers uncover how the bacterium adapts to human hosts, evades immunity, and develops antibiotic resistance.

The study analyzed over 7,000 samples of Staphylococcus aureus from more than 1,500 human carriers, marking the largest genetic analysis of the bacterium in its natural environment to date.
Key mutations were identified that enable the bacteria to evade the immune system and resist antibiotics such as fusidic acid, mupirocin, and trimethoprim.
Researchers discovered genetic changes linked to nitrogen metabolism, a critical process for the bacterium's colonization of human hosts.
The study also highlighted 'cheater' bacterial strains that rely on factors secreted by others to colonize humans without producing these factors themselves.
Findings could inform the development of new diagnostic tools, vaccines, and targeted treatments to address infections caused by Staphylococcus aureus.