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Molecular characterization of the gene encoding high-level mupirocin resistance in Staphylococcus aureus J2870

J E Hodgson1, S P Curnock, K G Dyke

  • 1Department of Biotechnology, SmithKline Beecham Pharmaceuticals, Brockham Park, Betchworth Surrey, United Kingdom.

Insights

High-level mupirocin resistance in Staphylococcus aureus J2870 is due to a novel ileS gene. This acquired gene differs significantly from the native S. aureus ileS gene, explaining the resistance mechanism.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Genetics
  • Molecular Biology

Background:

  • Staphylococcus aureus is a common pathogen.
  • Mupirocin is an important antibiotic for treating S. aureus infections.
  • Antibiotic resistance is a growing public health concern.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the nucleotide sequence of the ileS gene responsible for high-level mupirocin resistance in Staphylococcus aureus J2870.
  • To compare the novel ileS gene sequence with the native S. aureus ileS gene.

Main Methods:

  • Nucleotide sequencing of the ileS gene from S. aureus J2870.
  • Bioinformatic analysis and comparison of gene sequences.

Main Results:

  • The nucleotide sequence of the ileS gene conferring high-level mupirocin resistance was determined.
  • The identified ileS gene sequence is substantially different from the native S. aureus ileS gene sequence.

Conclusions:

  • High-level mupirocin resistance in Staphylococcus aureus J2870 is acquired through a novel ileS gene.
  • The acquisition of this novel ileS gene is the basis for high-level mupirocin resistance in this strain.

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