Impact of FtsZ Inhibition on the Localization of the Penicillin Binding Proteins in Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus
Edgar Ferrer-González, Hyun Huh, Hassan Al‐Tameemi, Jeffrey M. Boyd, Sang Hyuk Lee, Daniel S. Pilch
Abstract
MRSA is a multidrug-resistant bacterial pathogen of acute clinical importance, infecting many thousands of individuals globally each year. The essential cell division protein FtsZ has been identified as an appealing target for the development of new drugs to combat MRSA infections. Through synergistic actions, FtsZ-targeting agents can sensitize MRSA to antibiotics like the β-lactams that would otherwise be ineffective. This study provides key insights into the mechanism underlying this synergistic behavior as well as MRSA resistance to β-lactam drugs. The results of this work will help guide the identification and optimization of combination drug regimens that can effectively treat MRSA infections and reduce the potential for future resistance.