Staphylococcus aureus lacking a functional MntABC manganese import system has increased resistance to copper

What is it about?

To combat antibiotic resistance, we need to develop new prevention and therapeutic approaches. Copper (Cu) has shown promise as an antimicrobial compound; however, questions remain about how Cu enters cells, kills microorganisms, and how microorganisms prevent intoxication by Cu. Here we present data showing that a dysfunctional MntABC Mn transporter results in decreased cellular Cu accumulation. We also demonstrate that cytosolic Cu accumulation inhibits S. aureus FeS enzymes.

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