Antibiotic resistance plasmids of Staphylococcus aureus and their clinical importance

Abstract

A variety of plasmids have been isolated physically and most antibiotic resistance is thought to be plasmid mediated. However, a number of characteristics (resistance and production of pigment) are determined by genes that do not give clear indications of either plasmid or chromosomal location. The important feature of the plasmid is its dispensability without endangering the viability of the cell. Study of bacterial plasmids may be directed towards improving the effectiveness of antimicrobial therapy. (Calesnick - Springfield - Pa).