Colonization and Persistence Strategies of Staphylococcus aureus

S. aureus is a prime example of a multitalented opportunistic pathogen that possesses a broad array of virulence factors, not infrequently redundant and multifunctional. Thus, the many lineages of the S. aureus complex are well-equipped for the colonization of various mammalian hosts, including humans, and, after breaching the barrier of the skin and the mucous membranes, for infectious processes. The capability to adhere on biotic and inserted abiotic surfaces, to form complex biofilms and to become internalized plays a key role in the pathogenesis of S. aureus infections. The spectrum of infections ranges from mild to severe, even life-threatening infections including those associated with inserted foreign bodies. Typically, S. aureus is known as an extracellular pathogen causing acute aggressive courses of infection. However, the pathogen is also able to persist intracellularly in some kinds of cells including epithelial cells after internalization by formation of an adapted phenotype designated “small colony-variant”. The intracellular lifestyle leads to chronic infections with persistent and relapsing course of disease challenging the routine microbiological laboratory and the treating physician.