Understanding MRSA Methicillin Resistance: The mecA Gene Explained

Methicillin-resistant _Staphylococcus aureus_ (MRSA) is resistant to methicillin due to the acquisition of the mecA gene. This gene encodes the production of an altered penicillin-binding protein (PBP2a) that has a reduced affinity for beta-lactam antibiotics, including methicillin.