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Barbara Menzies, M.D. 
Acting Assistant Professor
CONTACT INFORMATION
University of Washington
VAMC
Box 358280
Seattle, Washington 98195
We are interested in the molecular mechanisms of adherence of Staphylococcus aureus to mammalian tissues and the establishment of staphylococcal infection. One important adherence determinant is binding to host fibronectin via surface-expressed fibronectin-binding proteins. We have generated recombinant fragments of this protein which are able to compete with the organism for binding to various cells. In an animal model of intermuscular wound infection, we have demonstrated that the co-administration of a fibronectin-binding fragment of this surface protein can prevent the establishment of infection. We are presently delineating the protective epitopes of this protein and are attempting to identify tissue-level mechanisms (anti-adhesive and/or inflammatory) that would explain the preventive effects.
Menzies BE. The role of fibronectin binding proteins in the pathogenesis of Staphylococcus aureus infections. Curr Op Infect Dise 16:225-9, 2003.
Menzies BE, Kourteva I, Kaiser AB, Kernodle DS. Inhibition of staphylococcal wound infection and potentiation of antibiotic prophylaxis by a recombinant fragment of the fibronectin-binding protein of Staphylococcus aureus. J Infect Dis 185:937-43, 2002.
Menzies BE, Kourteva I. Staphylococcus aureus alpha-toxin induces apoptosis in endothelial cells. FEMS Immunol Med Microbiol 29:39-45, 2000.
Menzies BE, Kourteva I. Internalization of Staphylococcus aureus by endothelial cells induces apoptosis. Infect Immun 66:5994-8, 1998.
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