Comprehensive Characterization of Efflux Pump Genes, Biofilm Formation, and Virulence Determinants in Staphylococcus aureus

Abstract

Background: Staphylococcus aureus is associated with high mortality rates in adults, particularly among immunocompromised individuals. However, only few predictive reports exist for this specific population.
The emergence of multidrug-resistant S. aureus strains poses a significant clinical challenge. Activity of efflux pump and biofilm formation are considered to be playing crucial roles in driving resistance against
antibiotics and limiting therapeutic efficacy.
Objective: The study aimed to investigate the prevalence of S. aureus among patients and to explain the mechanisms of resistance in isolates, focusing particularly on biofilm formation and efflux pump genes
(icaA, norB, and norC). Additionally, molecular docking analysis was performed to explicate the molecular interactions underlying efflux-and biofilm-mediated resistance.
Methods: A total of 24 samples were collected from patients , of which ten were identified as S. aureus and confirmed via biochemical assays and PCR amplification of species-specific genes. Antimicrobial
susceptibility testing was performed using Kirby–Bauer disk diffusion method. PCR was used to determine the presence of icaA, norB, and norC genes. Molecular docking technique was used to evaluate the binding interactions of ciprofloxacin, methicillin, carbonyl cyanide m-chlorophenyl hydrazone (CCCP), and reserpine.
Results: The icaA, norB, and norC genes were found in 100%, 50%, and 60% of the isolates, respectively. All the isolates were resistant to methicillin, while ciprofloxacin resistance was detected ABC (ATP Binding Cassette in four isolates. Reserpine exhibited the strongest binding affinity.

Conclusion: These findings underscore the importance of ntegrating molecular surveillance with in silico analyses while developing strategies for targeted therapeutic interventions.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.24321/0019.5138.202662

How to cite this article:
Kadhom H A, Qasim Z J, Alimeer D A, Al-Bayati A M S, Garallah E T. Comprehensive Characterization
of Efflux Pump Genes, Biofilm Formation, and Virulence Determinants in Staphylococcus aureus. J Commun Dis. 2026;58(3):127-137.