Development of a dual fluorescent reporter system to identify inhibitors of Staphylococcus aureus virulence factors

Appl Environ Microbiol. 2023 Nov 29;89(11):e0097823. doi: 10.1128/aem.00978-23. Epub 2023 Oct 27.

Abstract

Staphylococcus aureus is a formidable pathogen responsible for a wide range of infections, and the emergence of antibiotic-resistant strains has posed significant challenges in treating these infections. In this study, we have established a novel dual reporter system capable of concurrently monitoring the activities of two critical virulence regulators in S. aureus. By incorporating both reporters into a single screening platform, we provide a time- and cost-efficient approach for assessing the activity of compounds against two distinct targets in a single screening round. This innovative dual reporter system presents a promising strategy for the identification of molecules capable of modulating virulence gene expression in S. aureus, potentially expediting the development of antivirulence therapies.

Keywords: SaeRS; Staphylococcus aureus; accessory gene regulator; transcriptional reporter; virulence factors.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Bacterial Proteins / metabolism
  • Coloring Agents / metabolism
  • Gene Expression Regulation, Bacterial
  • Humans
  • Staphylococcal Infections*
  • Staphylococcus aureus* / metabolism
  • Virulence
  • Virulence Factors / genetics

Substances

  • Virulence Factors
  • Bacterial Proteins
  • Coloring Agents