Mutation of traP in Staphylococcus aureus Has No Impact on Expression of agr or Biofilm Formation

To investigate the regulatory role of traP (target of RNAIII-activating peptide) in Staphylococcus aureus, we generated traP mutations in the clinical isolates UAMS-1 and USA300. In neither case did mutation of traP affect expression of the accessory gene regulator (agr) or the ability to form a biofilm. We were also unable to confirm that mutation of traP in the prototype 8325-4 laboratory strain RN6390 results in reduced expression of agr, reduced hemolytic activity, or an altered capacity to form a biofilm.