Revealing 29 sets of independently modulated genes in Staphylococcus aureus , their regulators, and role in key physiological response

Significance Staphylococcus aureus infections impose an immense burden on the healthcare system. To establish a successful infection in a hostile host environment, S. aureus must coordinate its gene expression to respond to a wide array of challenges. This balancing act is largely orchestrated by the transcriptional regulatory network. Here, we present a model of 29 independently modulated sets of genes that form the basis for a segment of the transcriptional regulatory network in clinical USA300 strains of S. aureus . Using this model, we demonstrate the concerted role of various cellular systems (e.g., metabolism, virulence, and stress response) underlying key physiological responses, including response during blood infection.