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Updated: Jul 16, 2025

Development and Assessment of Intracellular Infection Models for Staphylococcus aureus
Published on: January 17, 2025
S. aureus virulence factors decrease epithelial barrier function and increase susceptibility to viral infection
Mary C Moran1,2, Matthew G Brewer1, Patrick M Schlievert3
1Department of Dermatology, University of Rochester Medical Center , Rochester, New York, USA.
Importance:
Staphylococcus aureus skin colonization and infection are frequently observed in individuals with atopic dermatitis. Many S. aureus strains belong to the clonal group USA300, and these strains produce superantigens including the staphylococcal enterotoxin-like Q (SElQ). Our studies highlight that SElQ may play a key role by altering keratinocyte differentiation and reducing barrier function; collectively, this may explain the AD-specific enhanced infection risk to cutaneous viruses. It is unclear what receptor mediates SElQ's effects on keratinocytes. We have shown that one putative surface receptor, CD40, was not critical for its effects on proinflammatory cytokine production or barrier function.
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