Exploring the intracellular survival and antibiotic resistance of Staphylococcus aureus

Ana Eulalio

Universidade de Coimbra, Portugal

Staphylococcus aureus is a major cause of hospital and community-acquired infections. Traditionally seen as an extracellular pathogen, recent research has shown that it can survive and grow inside human cells. This ability allows S. aureus to evade the immune system, spread within the body, and resist antibiotic treatment.

This project aims to explore the genetic factors that enable S. aureus to invade, survive, and replicate in different host cell types. Using advanced imaging and screening techniques, the researchers will study a collection of more than 1500 bacterial mutants. They will focus on identifying key bacterial factors, elucidating their molecular mechanisms, and optimizing antimicrobial therapies by using a combination of microscopy-based infection assays and automated image analysis to profile the intracellular behaviour of the bacterial mutants.

Researchers will provide a better understanding of the intracellular lifestyle of S. aureus and its impact on antibiotic treatment efficacy. By identifying specific bacterial factors and testing different antibiotic regimens, they hope to improve treatment strategies for S. aureus infections. Ultimately, the project aims to contribute to a paradigm shift in how these infections are treated, considering both the antibiotic susceptibility and the intracellular lifestyle of the pathogen.

Investigating Staphylococcus aureus Intracellular Lifestyle to Inform Antibiotic Selection

€473.902,70