Staphylococcus aureus

Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) is a type of spherical, Gram-positive bacteria commonly found on the skin and in the nasal passages of healthy individuals. S. aureus does not normally cause infections in healthy skin, it can peacefully coexist with us as a part of our regular microbiota. However, if allowed to enter the bloodstream, these bacteria can cause a variety of potentially serious infections. Treatment remains difficult to manage due to the emergence of multi-drug resistant strains such as MRSA.

Epidemiology

S. aureus Infections

Being a versatile pathogen, S. aureus is a leading cause of infections worldwide – causing diseases ranging from minor skin infections to life-threatening illnesses such as pneumonia, meningitis, osteomyelitis, endocarditis, toxic shock syndrome, bacteremia, and sepsis. The spread of S. aureus, especially MRSA, in healthcare settings and in communities, has become a significant global concern.

Antibiotic Resistance

The resistance of S. aureus, particularly MRSA, to multiple antibiotics, has posed a grave challenge to healthcare providers and researchers. Resistance mechanisms employed by S. aureus involve,

• Alteration in the target site of the antibiotic molecule.
• Reducing the concentration of the antibiotic at the site of action.
• Disabling the antibiotic molecule before it reaches its target.

Treatment Options

Antibiotic therapy

Presently, MRSA strains are treated using a handful of antibiotics such as Linezolid, Daptomycin, and Vancomycin. However, the evolving resistance towards these drugs necessitates continuous research to develop novel effective therapeutic interventions.

Potential treatment options

• Quorum sensing inhibition
• Phage therapy
• Vaccine strategy
• Antimicrobial peptides

Our Capabilities

Ace Therapeutics brings a unique blend of knowledge, technology, and a rapidly growing drug development pipeline to combat the pivotal issue of S. aureus infection and antibiotic resistance. Our research and development center focuses on identifying new therapeutic targets, understanding resistance mechanisms, and developing promising drugs to counter S. aureus infections.

In Conclusion

S. aureus remains a significant issue globally due to its resistance to multiple antibiotics. We are committed to the development of more effective therapeutics to fight against this harmful bacterium and improve patient outcomes.

For more detailed information about our research work, please feel free to contact us. Ace Therapeutics looks forward to exploring collaborative opportunities for a healthier future!

References

1. Taylor TA; et al. (2023). Staphylococcus aureus Infection. In: StatPearls. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing. July 17.
2. Tong SYCDavis JS; et al. (2015). Staphylococcus aureus Infections: Epidemiology, Pathophysiology, Clinical Manifestations, and Management. Clin Microbiol Rev 28.