In 2009, the bacterium Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) had contributed to more than 700 deaths in the UK. A group of UK scientists from the Medical Research Council Human Genetics Unit, University of Dundee, University of St Andrews and St George’s University of London, which includes Dr Peter Coote and Dr Shirley Graham of the School of Biology, have identified genes in MRSA that could help the superbug survive despite treatment with antibacterial agents. In addition, the team identified a novel role for 22 genes in assisting MRSA cause disease. It is hoped that the research could lead to the development of new therapies. [More]
