Lecture on Staphylococcus aureus and Its Virulence Factors

This set of flashcards covers key vocabulary terms and definitions relating to Staphylococcus aureus and its associated virulence factors, providing essential information for understanding bacterial pathogenesis.

Commensal Pathogen

A microorganism that typically lives in harmony with its host without causing harm, but can cause disease under certain conditions.

Staphylococcus aureus

A Gram-positive bacterium that can cause various infections, often referred to as 'golden grapes' due to its appearance.

Necrotizing fasciitis

A severe bacterial infection also known as 'flesh-eating disease' which destroys soft tissue.

Cytolysins

Type of toxins produced by bacteria that can lyse or break down cells.

Toxic shock syndrome toxin (TSST)

A superantigen produced by Staphylococcus aureus that causes severe immune responses, leading to

Exfoliative toxins

Proteins produced by Staphylococcus aureus that cause skin shedding and are responsible for Staphylococcal Scalded Skin Syndrome (SSSS).

Quorum sensing

A regulatory mechanism that bacteria use to coordinate group behaviors based on population density.

MRSA

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, a strain of S. aureus resistant to the antibiotic methicillin.

PBP2a

A penicillin-binding protein that provides resistance to β-lactam antibiotics in MRSA.

Virulence factors

Molecules produced by pathogens that enable them to achieve colonization, immunoevasion, and cause disease.