Alpha-Gal Bound Aptamer and Vancomycin Synergistically Reduce Staphylococcus aureus Infection In Vivo

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Pharmacology
• Biotechnology

Background:

• Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) presents a significant and ongoing challenge, necessitating innovative therapeutic strategies or adjuncts.
• Aptamers, which are single-stranded oligonucleotides with specific binding capabilities, offer a potential therapeutic avenue, particularly when used alongside existing antibiotics.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of the αSA31 aptamer as a monotherapy and in combination with vancomycin for treating MRSA infections in a mouse model.
• To assess the impact of aptamer-vancomycin combination therapy on disease progression and survival rates.

Main Methods:

• BALB/c GTKO mice were infected with MRSA and treated with either the αSA31 aptamer, vancomycin, or a combination of both.
• Post-treatment, organs (heart, lungs, liver, spleen, kidneys) were analyzed histologically and via qPCR.
• Survival rates were monitored throughout the experimental period.

Main Results:

• Mice treated with αSA31 aptamer alone did not survive.
• Vancomycin monotherapy resulted in a 5/12 survival rate.
• The combination of vancomycin and αSA31 aptamer yielded a 7/12 survival rate, demonstrating reduced disease persistence and dispersion compared to monotherapies.

Conclusions:

• The combination of vancomycin and the αSA31 aptamer is a potentially novel and effective strategy for controlling MRSA infections.
• Aptamers may represent a viable therapeutic option for combating other emerging antibiotic-resistant pathogens.