The staphylococci are important pathogenic bacteria responsible for a variety of diseases in humans and other animals. They are the most common cause of hospital acquired infection and antibiotic resistant strains (MRSA) have become endemic in hospitals in most countries causing major public health issues. In addition, the incidence of new strains that cause severe community-acquired infections in healthy people is increasing and MRSA strains are emerging in agricultural and domestic animals. In the race to understand staphylococcal pathogenesis the focus has been on genetics, as a bacterium can only do what its genes allow. The publication of the first staphylococcal whole genome sequence in 2001 paved the way for a greater understanding of the molecular basis of its virulence, evolution, epidemiology and drug resistance. Since then the available genomic data has mushroomed and this, coupled with the major advances in genetic know-how and the availability of better genetic tools, has allowed significant advances to be made.

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Available in early 2008, a new book focuses on staphylococcal genetics, bringing together the expertise and enthusiasm of an international panel of leading staphylococcal researchers and providing a state-of-the art overview of the field.

Staphylococcus: Molecular Genetics