Abstract
Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) strains are among the most common nosocomial pathogens. The most significant mechanism of resistance to methicillin in this-species is the acquisition of a genetic determinant (mecA gene). However, resistance seems to have a more complex molecular basis, since additional chromosomal material is involved in such resistance. Besides, overproduction of penicillinase and/or alterations in the PBPs can contribute to the formation of resistance phenotypes. Genetic and environmental factors leading to MRSA are reviewed.
MeSH terms
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Bacterial Proteins / genetics
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Bacterial Proteins / physiology*
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Carrier Proteins / genetics
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Carrier Proteins / physiology*
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Gene Expression Regulation, Bacterial
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Genes, Bacterial
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Hexosyltransferases*
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Methicillin Resistance / genetics
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Methicillin Resistance / physiology*
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Muramoylpentapeptide Carboxypeptidase / genetics
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Muramoylpentapeptide Carboxypeptidase / physiology*
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Penicillin-Binding Proteins
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Peptidyl Transferases*
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Phenotype
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Staphylococcus aureus / drug effects*
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Staphylococcus aureus / genetics
Substances
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Bacterial Proteins
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Carrier Proteins
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Penicillin-Binding Proteins
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Peptidyl Transferases
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Hexosyltransferases
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Muramoylpentapeptide Carboxypeptidase