In vivo efficiency of the produced recombinant lysostaphin antimicrobial peptide in treatment of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) skin infection in a mouse model

Staphylococcus simulans secretes an antimicrobial compound called lysostaphin, which has bactericidal properties. It destroys staphylococci through the hydrolysis of peptidoglycan in the cell wall. Therefore, this unique property indicates the high ability of lysostaphin in the treatment of staphylococcal infections and is considered as an anti-staphylococcal agent.

Escherichia coli BL21 (DE3) competent cells were transformed with pET32a-lysostaphin clone and induced by isopropyl-β-D-thio-galactoside (IPTG). The recombinant protein was purified by affinity chromatography. Recombinant lysostaphin -A-based ointment was used for external wound healing in animal model. In vivo activity of oint- ment was evaluated by clinical evidences and cytological microscopic assessment.

Our results showed the recombinant protein was produced exactly. The results of checkerboard tests showed MIC, MBC and antibacterial activity test an acute reduction of cell viability during the use of lysostaphin, and SEM results ap- proved the intense wrecking effects of lysostaphin in combination on bacterial cells. Macroscopic findings and microscopic data showed that the recombinant lysostaphin ointment was effective on excisional wound healing.

Our findings proved that the recombinant lysostaphin ointment was effective on wound healing due to Staphy- lococcus aureus infection.