Role of beta-lactamase in expression of resistance by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus

Antimicrob Agents Chemother. 1987 Sep;31(9):1426-8. doi: 10.1128/AAC.31.9.1426.

Abstract

Of 27 unique clinical isolates of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, only 4 were homogeneously resistant, and all 4 produced little or no beta-lactamase. Among heterogeneously resistant strains, those most resistant to beta-lactam antibiotics produced the most beta-lactamase. Similar genes may regulate production of the low-affinity penicillin-binding protein and beta-lactamase.

MeSH terms

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / pharmacology
  • Clavulanic Acid
  • Clavulanic Acids / pharmacology
  • Methicillin
  • Microbial Sensitivity Tests
  • Penicillin Resistance*
  • Staphylococcus aureus / drug effects*
  • Staphylococcus aureus / physiology
  • beta-Lactamases / physiology*

Substances

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents
  • Clavulanic Acids
  • Clavulanic Acid
  • beta-Lactamases
  • Methicillin