Mechanisms of Resistance to Macrolide Antibiotics among Staphylococcus aureus

Methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus strains pose a serious treatment problem because of their multi-drug resistance (MDR). In staphylococcal strains, resistance to macrolides, lincosamides, and streptogramin B (MLSB) correlates with resistance to methicillin. The rapid transmission of erm genes responsible for MLSB resistance has strongly limited the clinical application of traditional macrolides such as erythromycin. On the other hand, in the age of increasing insensitivity to antibiotics the idea of implementing a therapy based on older generation drugs brings hope that the spread of antibiotic resistance will be limited. A thorough understanding of the resistance mechanisms contributes to design of antibiotics that avoid bacterial insensitivity. This review highlights the mechanisms of action of macrolides and mechanism of resistance to these antibiotics among Staphylococcus aureus.

Automated summary

Methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus strains are difficult to treat due to their resistance to multiple drugs, such as macrolides, lincosamides, and streptogramin B. The transmission of erm genes responsible for resistance limits the clinical use of traditional macrolides like erythromycin, highlighting the need for alternative treatment strategies. Understanding resistance mechanisms aids in designing antibiotics that can effectively combat bacterial insensitivity.