Exploring the Antibacterial and Anti-Biofilm Properties of Diacerein Against Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus. Staphylococcus aureus

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) poses a significant clinical challenge due to its multidrug resistance. Diacerein (DIA), primarily used to treat degenerative joint diseases, has recently been found to exhibit antibacterial activity, though its specific antibacterial mechanisms remain unclear.Methods: The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) of DIA, as well as in - vitro combination susceptibility testing, were determined using the broth microdilution method. Additionally, resistance induction assays, time-growth curve measurements, membrane fluidity, intracellular protein levels, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) were assessed. The inhibition and clearance of MRSA biofilms by DIA were evaluated using the crystal violet staining method, with bacterial morphology and biofilms observed via scanning electron microscopy and confocal laser scanning microscopy. Finally, transcriptome analysis was conducted to identify gene expression changes in MRSA treated with DIA, and RT-qPCR verification was performed.