Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 9, 2025

Deferred Growth Inhibition Assay to Quantify the Effect of Bacteria-derived Antimicrobials on Competition
Published on: September 3, 2016
Interventions targeting the nasal microbiome to eradicate methicillin-resistant Staphylococcusaureus
1Infectious Diseases Section, Department of Medicine, Veterans Affairs Eastern Colorado Healthcare System, 1700 North Wheeling, Aurora, CO, USA; Infectious Diseases Division, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA.
The nasal microbiome influences methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) colonization. Understanding this relationship may lead to new strategies for preventing MRSA infections.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Medical Research
Background:
- Staphylococcus aureus, particularly methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA), is a significant pathogen.
- Nasal colonization by MRSA increases infection risk, and current decolonization methods are suboptimal.
- The nasal microbiome's role in MRSA colonization and host defense is an emerging area of study.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the scientific literature on the role of the nasal microbiome in MRSA nasal colonization and infection.
Main Methods:
- A literature search was conducted using MEDLINE.
- Search terms included MRSA, S. aureus, prebiotic, and microbiota.
- Peer-reviewed articles were identified and reviewed.
Main Results:
- Certain microorganisms are negatively associated with S. aureus colonization.
- Antimicrobial molecules produced by these organisms are under investigation.
- The nasal microbiome may play a protective role against S. aureus.
Conclusions:
- Future research should aim to develop safe and effective inhibitors of S. aureus in the nasal vestibule.
- Preserving the nasal microbiota by avoiding unnecessary antibiotic use is recommended.
Related Concept Videos
Defense Against Bacterial Pathogens
Phagocytes
Phagocytes are the frontline soldiers of the immune system. They include neutrophils and macrophages. Neutrophils are the most abundant type of white blood cell and are quickly mobilized to the site of infection. Macrophages are larger cells that patrol...
Biological Methods for Microbial Control
Surface Membrane Barriers
The outer layer of the skin, the epidermis, is a robust barrier comprising layers of closely packed keratinized cells. This dense arrangement prevents microbes from penetrating the body. The periodic shedding of epidermal cells...
Gene Regulation in Microbial Communities: Quorum Sensing
Combined Effects of Drugs: Synergism
Such synergistic combinations...
Physical Methods for Controlling Microbial Growth: Radiation and Filtration

