Staphylococcus aureus and biofilms: transmission, threats, and promising strategies in animal husbandry

Abstract

Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) is a common pathogenic bacterium in animal husbandry that can cause diseases such as mastitis, skin infections, arthritis, and other ailments. The formation of biofilms threatens and exacerbates S. aureus infection by allowing the bacteria to adhere to pathological areas and livestock product surfaces, thus triggering animal health crises and safety issues with livestock products. To solve this problem, in this review, we provide a brief overview of the harm caused by S. aureus and its biofilms on livestock and animal byproducts (meat and dairy products). We also describe the ways in which S. aureus spreads in animals and the threats it poses to the livestock industry. The processes and molecular mechanisms involved in biofilm formation are then explained. Finally, we discuss strategies for the removal and eradication of S. aureus and biofilms in animal husbandry, including the use of antimicrobial peptides, plant extracts, nanoparticles, phages, and antibodies. These strategies to reduce the spread of S. aureus in animal husbandry help maintain livestock health and improve productivity to ensure the ecologically sustainable development of animal husbandry and the safety of livestock products.

Biofilm-producing ability of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus clinically isolated in China

“…The development and formation of biofilm involve four stages: attachment of planktonic cells to the surface, colonization and biofilm formation, biofilm maturation, and biofilm dispersion [ 3 , 4 ]. When an implant is introduced into the host, the immune response easily covers its non-biological surface with host proteins [ 5 , 6 ].…”