Usnic Acid: A Potential Natural Anti-Staphylococcal Agent - Abstract
Usnic acid is one of the most abundant secondary metabolites produced by lichen genus such as Usnea sp. Usnic acid antibacterial mechanism of action study has shown to target multiple cell components and also showed synergy with different antibiotics against multi-drug resistant bacteria such as methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Drug-resistant bacteria continue to grow and defeat the drugs in use for both humans and animals. Therefore, use of alternative drugs from natural sources such as usnic acid can fight infections and may improve therapeutic efficacy while lowering side effects of antibiotics. Considering the emergence of resistant strains, this review is intended to summarize potential targets of usnic acid, with a focus on developing novel therapeutic agents against MRSA.