How S. aureus Survives Calprotectin
A study by the Kümmerli Lab at DQBM uncovers the dual mechanisms enabling Staphylococcus aureus to survive calprotectin, a zinc- and manganese-sequestering protein of the human immune system. The researchers show that S. aureus responds immediately through phenotypic changes, such as altered metal uptake and stress responses, while also acquiring genetic mutations that confer long-term resistance. This combination of short- and long-term adaptations allows the pathogen to overcome metal starvation imposed by the host. The work advances our understanding of bacterial persistence during infection and highlights potential targets for antimicrobial development.
Read the full article: https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.ppat.1013015