Honors College Theses

Publication Date

2025

Major

Medical Laboratory Science (B.S.)

Release Option

Open Access

Faculty Mentor

Glynnece Campbell

Abstract

In recent decades, cases of community-acquired MRSA (CA-MRSA) and healthcare-associated MRSA (HA-MRSA) have been on the rise. The ability of antibiotic resistance to transfer between microorganisms greatly expands its threat to the effective treatment and containment of bacterial infections. The mecA gene is found on a mobile cassette within the Staphylococcal cell and encodes for PBP2a, an alternate version of penicillin-binding protein (PBP) with less binding affinity for β-lactam antibiotics, increasing resistance to the effects of antibiotics. The goal of this research is to investigate the horizontal transfer of the mecA gene between various Staphylococcus species as well as to recognize the importance of antibiotic resistance in both the scientific and public health spheres. There are no vaccines or preventative therapies against this infection—which can be fatal if left untreated—making it imperative for the general public to be aware of the significance of antibiotic resistance and to take the necessary precautions to prevent the spread of disease.

Thesis Summary

In recent decades, cases of community-acquired MRSA (CA-MRSA) and healthcare-associated MRSA (HA-MRSA) have been on the rise. The ability of antibiotic resistance to transfer between microorganisms greatly expands its threat to the effective treatment and containment of bacterial infections. The goal of this research is to investigate the horizontal transfer of the mecA gene between various Staphylococcus species as well as to recognize the importance of antibiotic resistance in both the scientific and public health spheres.

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