Evaluation of LPRDA Pentapeptide for the Prevention and Treatment of Staphylococcus aureus Peritoneal Infection

Targeting virulence determinants is a promising approach to controlling <i>S. aureus</i> infections in the face of the global spread of antibiotic resistance. <i>S. aureus</i>-induced peritonitis often occurs in dialysis, implant and trauma patients. To develop novel prevention and treatment options for peritoneal infection, we investigated the oligopeptide sortase A inhibitor LPRDA as a non-conventional antibacterial that does not affect staphylococcal survival. Administration of LPRDA prior to <i>S. aureus</i> challenge reduced the bacterial load of internal organs and bacterial colonization of the abdominal cavity in animals. In addition, LPRDA inhibited α-hemolysin production in 80% of the 35 reference and clinical <i>S. aureus</i> strains tested. Consequent research of LPRDA interactions with cefazolin and vancomycin has demonstrated the potential for combined application of the antivirulent and antibiotic agents under study.