Advancements in function recognition of staphyloxanthin and targeted inhibitor development

Staphylococcus aureus is a significant foodborne pathogen that endangers food safety and public health. Targeting the virulence factor staphyloxanthin has proven effective in controlling S. aureus within the food industry by diminishing its resistance to oxidative stress and thus increasing its vulnerability to disinfectants like H₂O₂. Recent research has uncovered additional functions of staphyloxanthin and reported the development of inhibitors targeting this factor. These advancements not only deepen our understanding of staphyloxanthin’s role but also present novel strategies to mitigate the prevalence of S. aureus in the food industry. But a comprehensive review of these advancements is lacking. This article seeks to provide an extensive overview of the newly identified functions of staphyloxanthin and recent progress in inhibitor development. It encompasses new research perspectives, representative cases, and emerging trends, aiming to inspire further research on staphyloxanthin functions, targeted inhibitors, and their practical applications in food safety management.