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Updated: May 26, 2026
A Mouse Model to Assess Innate Immune Response to Staphylococcus aureus Infection
Published on: February 28, 2019
The Staphylococcus aureus peptidoglycan protects mice against the pathogen and eradicates experimentally induced
Rosanna Capparelli1, Nunzia Nocerino, Chiara Medaglia
1University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy.
Abstract:
Staphylococcus aureus, in spite of antibiotics, is still a major human pathogen causing a wide range of infections. The present study describes the new vaccine A170PG, a peptidoglycan-based vaccine. In a mouse model of infection, A170PG protects mice against a lethal dose of S. aureus. Protection lasts at least 40 weeks and correlates with increased survival and reduced colonization. Protection extends into drug-resistant (MRSA or VISA) and genetically diverse clinical strains. The vaccine is effective when administered - in a single dose and without adjuvant - by the intramuscular, intravenous or the aerosol routes and induces active as well as passive immunization. Of note, A170PG also displays therapeutic activity, eradicating staphylococci, even when infection is systemic. Sustained antibacterial activity and induction of a strong and rapid anti-inflammatory response are the mechanisms conferring therapeutic efficacy to A170PG.
Insights
A new peptidoglycan-based vaccine, A170PG, effectively protects mice against Staphylococcus aureus infections, including drug-resistant strains. This novel vaccine also demonstrates therapeutic potential, eradicating infections and reducing inflammation.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Vaccinology
- Microbiology
Background:
- Staphylococcus aureus remains a significant human pathogen despite antibiotic availability.
- The emergence of antibiotic-resistant strains like MRSA and VISA necessitates novel therapeutic and prophylactic strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of a novel peptidoglycan-based vaccine, A170PG, against Staphylococcus aureus infections.
- To assess the protective duration, route of administration, and therapeutic potential of A170PG.
Main Methods:
- A mouse model of Staphylococcus aureus infection was utilized.
- A170PG was administered via intramuscular, intravenous, or aerosol routes, with and without adjuvant.
- Survival rates, bacterial colonization, and therapeutic efficacy were assessed.
Main Results:
- A170PG provided significant protection against lethal S. aureus challenge, lasting at least 40 weeks.
- Protection was observed against genetically diverse and drug-resistant strains (MRSA, VISA).
- The vaccine demonstrated therapeutic activity, eradicating systemic infections and inducing anti-inflammatory responses.
Conclusions:
- A170PG is a promising vaccine candidate offering broad-spectrum protection against S. aureus.
- Its efficacy across multiple administration routes and its therapeutic potential highlight its versatility.
- The vaccine's ability to induce sustained antibacterial activity and reduce inflammation contributes to its therapeutic benefits.
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