Lys K endolysin is synergistic with lysostaphin against MRSA

US8568714B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• The United States of America, as represented by the Secretary of Agriculture · US

Inventors

• David M. Donovan · Baltimore, US
• Stephen C. Becker · Baltimore, US

Key dates

• Filing date: May 21, 2009
• Grant date: Oct 29, 2013
• Expiry date: Mar 2, 2030

Classification

• Technology area (CPC C): Chemistry; Metallurgy
• CPC primary: C12Y304/24075
• WIPO field: Pharmaceuticals
• WIPO sector: Chemistry

Abstract

Multi-drug resistant superbugs are a persistent problem in modern health care. LysK is a staphylococcal bacteriophage endolysin from the phage K. It is a peptidoglycan hydrolase enzyme that can lyse many staphylococcal strains and thus is a potent antimicrobial against S. aureus, including MRSA. Lysostaphin is a bacteriocin secreted by S. simulans to kill S. aureus, and has been shown to also be a potent antimicrobial for many antibiotic resistant strains of S. aureus. This study describes optimal reaction conditions for the recombinant His-tagged LysK protein, compares its MIC and antimicrobial activity to lysostaphin and demonstrates synergy when the two are used in combination against the MRSA USA300.