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Updated: Sep 13, 2025
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Genotyping of Staphylococcus aureus by Ribosomal Spacer PCR RS-PCR
Published on: November 4, 2016
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Characteristics of Staphylococcus saprophyticus Isolated from Humans and Animals
Paulina Prorok1, Karolina Bierowiec1, Milena Skrok1
1Department of Epizootiology and Clinic of Birds and Exotic Animals, Division of Infectious Diseases and Veterinary Sciences, 50-365 Wrocław, Poland.
International Journal of Molecular Sciences
|July 29, 2025
Summary
Staphylococcus saprophyticus, a cause of urinary tract infections, shows significant multidrug resistance and virulence in both humans and companion animals. This highlights the potential for zoonotic transmission from pets, underscoring the need for further research.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Veterinary Medicine
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Staphylococcus saprophyticus (S. saprophyticus) is an opportunistic pathogen causing urinary tract infections in humans.
- Its role in veterinary medicine and potential as a reservoir for interspecies transmission are understudied.
- Companion animals may harbor S. saprophyticus, contributing to the spread of resistant pathogens.
Purpose of the Study:
- To epidemiologically characterize S. saprophyticus strains from humans, dogs, and cats.
- To identify virulence factors and antimicrobial resistance profiles.
- To assess the potential for zoonotic transmission.
Main Methods:
- Analyzed 61 S. saprophyticus strains using MALDI-TOF MS and PCR for identification.
- Assessed antimicrobial susceptibility and resistance genes (blaZ, mecA, ermA, ermB, tetM, tetK) via disk diffusion, broth microdilution, and PCR.
- Evaluated pathogenic potential using the Galleria mellonella infection model and biofilm formation at different temperatures.
Main Results:
- All strains harbored blaZ and mecA genes; most carried ermA, ermB, tetM, and tetK resistance genes.
- Multidrug resistance (MDR) was found in 34.4% of strains.
- Biofilm formation was temperature-dependent, strongest at 37°C. All strains showed pathogenicity in G. mellonella, with higher mortality from feline and canine isolates.
Conclusions:
- S. saprophyticus strains from humans and companion animals exhibit significant virulence and multidrug resistance.
- Animals serve as potential reservoirs for S. saprophyticus, facilitating zoonotic transmission.
- Genotypic and phenotypic resistance in animal strains warrants attention for public health surveillance.
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