Microbe-derived aromatic polyketides toward MRSA infection: current advances and perspectives

Covering: 2005 to July 2025

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), emerging as one of the most common multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacterial strains, has posed a serious threat to global healthcare over the past few decades due to its high rates of morbidity and mortality. Aromatic polyketides, renowned for their intricate structures and diverse biological activities, are a remarkable bioresource for developing new antimicrobial agents. This review systematically classifies all natural aromatic polyketides (from 2005 to 2025) with anti-MRSA activity (MICs < 10 µg mL⁻¹) from microbial sources, and summarizes their structure–activity relationships, additional bioactivities, and reported antibacterial mechanisms. Meanwhile, the clinical utilization status, limitations, and ongoing challenges associated with existing anti-MRSA aromatic polyketide antibiotics were assessed, alongside valuable perspectives on the potential advancement of aromatic polyketide derivatives. Additionally, the review provides further insights into drug innovation and future trends in medicinal research regarding the rational development of anti-MRSA aromatic polyketide drugs, offering a valuable reference for future research and pharmaceutical development.