Multi-host infection and phylogenetically diverse lineages shape the recombination and gene pool dynamics of Staphylococcus aureus

Abstract excerpt

BACKGROUND: Staphylococcus aureus can infect and adapt to multiple host species. However, our understanding of the genetic and evolutionary drivers of its generalist lifestyle remains inadequate. This is particularly important when considering local populations of S. aureus, where close physical proximity between bacterial lineages and between host species may facilitate frequent and repeated interactions between...