Cows-Derived Bacteria Show Potential in Fighting MRSA Infections

Recent research conducted by scientists at the University of Copenhagen has uncovered promising new strategies for combating methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), a highly resistant bacterial strain responsible for difficult-to-treat infections. The study focused on understanding how communication signals, known as quorum sensing molecules, enable staphylococci bacteria to coordinate their activities, including infection processes. Intriguingly, the team mapped the interaction network of signaling molecules used by both harmless and pathogenic staphylococci species.

A key discovery was that a signaling molecule originating from Staphylococcus simulans, a species commonly found on cows, exhibited potent activity against S. aureus, including MRSA strains. This molecule was not only effective in laboratory tests but also successfully disrupted MRSA infections in mice models, indicating a potential new therapeutic approach. The molecule was also found naturally present in goats, horses, and humans.

This research opens the door to innovative treatments that inhibit bacterial communication rather than kill bacteria outright, thus reducing the risk of resistance development. Laboratory experiments showed that bacteria did not develop resistance to these signaling molecules after 15 days, highlighting their potential for long-term use. Unlike antibiotics, which are lethal and exert strong evolutionary pressure, these molecules interfere with the bacteria’s ability to coordinate infections without harming them.

The findings suggest that harnessing bacterial communication pathways could be a promising alternative in the fight against antibiotic-resistant infections. As antibiotic resistance continues to grow globally, such approaches could become vital in developing sustainable and effective treatments.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-07-bacteria-cows-results-mrsa-infections.html