Generation and Characterization of Murine Monoclonal Antibodies anti-PBP2a of Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus.

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a multidrug-resistant bacterium that causes serious infections worldwide. This pathogen is resistant to all beta lactam antibiotics due the presence of PBP2a, a transpeptidase enzyme that presents very low beta-lactam affinity. Here we report the generation and characterization of mouse monoclonal antibodies to PBP2a of MRSA strains. Two clones were obtained and characterized by immunoassays (ELISA, avidity index determination, and immunoblotting), isotyping, association/dissociation rate constants by surface plasmon resonance (SPR), and flow cytometry. Clone 38, which showed the best avidity and affinity, bound to PBP2a located on the bacterial surface by flow cytometry. Further studies are warranted in order to evaluate if these antibodies may help inhibit bacterial growth and be used to treat infections by MRSA.