Role of cytokines in host defense against Staphylococcus aureus skin infection

Wound infection caused by Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) is a critical clinical problem due to long hospitalization times, significant morbidity and mortality, as well as considerable medical resource consumption. With the emergence of methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) strains, current antibiotic treatments are becoming ineffective in combatting S. aureus infection. Thus, a novel therapeutic strategy is required. Recent studies discovered that several cytokines in the infected wound area play protective roles against S. aureus infection. This review summarizes recent discoveries regarding the role of cytokines-mediated responses in host defense against S. aureus skin infection, and discusses their implications for future immunotherapy and vaccine development