The influence of mobile genetic elements on fitness, virulence and drug resistance of Staphylococcus aureus

PhD ceremony: Ms. M.A. Chlebowicz 16.45 uur, Academiegebouw, Broerstraat 5, Groningen

Dissertation: The influence of mobile genetic elements on fitness, virulence and drug resistance of Staphylococcus aureus

Promotor(s): prof. J.M. van Dijl, prof. H. Grundmann

Faculty: Medical Sciences

The studies indicate a major role of phages in the transfer of SCCmec elements. Importantly, these elements can be lost again through recombination in conserved genes. Together, the data highlight the major impact of mobile genetic elements on staphylococcal fitness, virulence and antibiotic resistance.