Staph bacteria are prolific gene swappers

When some disease-causing bacteria encounter a new obstacle, they simply swap DNA with their relatives to acquire the genes needed to overcome it. And they do so quite readily, according to NIAID scientists. The research reveals how Staphylococcus aureus, the common "staph" bacterium responsible for several human infections, has repeatedly adapted to novel environments and conditions.
The research offers new approaches to antibiotic and vaccine design.

Contact:
Sam Perdue
sp189u@nih.gov
301-402-1663

Message posted by: Wouter Kalle