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Virulence Factors in Coagulase-Negative Staphylococci
Angela França1, Vânia Gaio1, Nathalie Lopes1
1Laboratory of Research in Biofilms Rosário Oliveira, Centre of Biological Engineering, University of Minho, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal.
Pathogens (Basel, Switzerland)
|February 9, 2021
Summary
Coagulase-negative staphylococci (CoNS) are increasingly identified as significant healthcare pathogens. This review examines their virulence factors, like biofilm formation, and antibiotic resistance, impacting health and food safety.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- Coagulase-negative staphylococci (CoNS) are emerging as significant pathogens in healthcare settings.
- Key CoNS species include *S. epidermidis*, *S. haemolyticus*, and *S. lugdunensis*.
- While less virulent than *S. aureus*, CoNS pose treatment challenges due to increasing virulence factor identification and antibiotic resistance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the virulence aspects of CoNS.
- To discuss the impact of CoNS on human health and food safety.
- To highlight the challenges in treating CoNS infections.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of scientific publications.
- Analysis of identified virulence factors in CoNS strains.
- Examination of antibiotic resistance genes in CoNS.
Main Results:
- Biofilm formation is a primary virulence factor in CoNS.
- Increasing numbers of CoNS strains are being sequenced, revealing diverse virulence factors.
- The presence of antibiotic-resistance genes complicates treatment strategies.
Conclusions:
- CoNS represent a growing threat in healthcare-associated infections.
- Understanding CoNS virulence and resistance is crucial for effective management.
- CoNS impact extends to both clinical settings and food safety.
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