Comparative genomics of Staphylococcus aureus subsp. anaerobius from sheep in European and African countries

Staphylococcus aureus is a major pathogen of humans and livestock with an extraordinary ability to colonise and infect a broad range of hosts. In striking contrast, S. aureus subsp. anaerobius is a microaerophilic, host-restricted bacterium that is responsible for a very specific abscess pathology (Morel's disease) in small ruminants. The molecular basis for its restricted metabolism and host adaptation are so far unknown. This project will carry out an evolutionary genomic analysis of clinical isolates obtained in Europe and Africa over the last 30 years.