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The acid response network of Staphylococcus aureus
1Department of Pathology and Microbiology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, United States.
Current Opinion in Microbiology
|May 4, 2020
Summary
Staphylococcus aureus survives in acidic host environments. This review covers known acid resistance mechanisms but highlights the need for more research on their regulation and interaction with organic acids in the skin and gut.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Host-pathogen interactions
- Bacterial physiology
Background:
- Staphylococcus aureus frequently colonizes and infects mammalian hosts.
- Many host niches, such as the skin and gut, are acidic.
- Survival mechanisms of S. aureus in acidic environments are not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current knowledge on acid resistance mechanisms in Staphylococcus aureus and related species.
- To identify gaps in understanding the regulation of acid resistance.
- To explore potential interactions with weak organic acids in host niches.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent studies on S. aureus acid resistance.
- Analysis of known pH resistance mechanisms in staphylococcal species.
- Identification of research areas requiring further investigation.
Main Results:
- Several acid resistance mechanisms in S. aureus have been documented.
- The regulation of the acid resistance regulon is not clearly defined.
- Interactions with weak organic acids in specific host niches remain understudied.
Conclusions:
- While some S. aureus acid resistance mechanisms are known, comprehensive understanding is lacking.
- Further research is needed to elucidate the regulation of acid resistance pathways.
- Investigating interactions with organic acids in host-specific niches like the skin and gut is crucial.
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