Clofoctol [2-(2,4-dichlorobenzyl)-4-(tetramethyl-l,l,3,3-butyl) phenol] is a synthetic antibacterial compound with activity against both Gram-positive1 and Gram-negative2 microorganisms. Although the specific mechanism of Clofoctol action has not been fully elucidated, it is reported to alter the permeability of the cytoplasmic membrane in Bacillus subtilis, and is used clinically to treat upper respiratory tract infections in humans. Staphylococcus aureus is a major human Grampositive pathogen that causes a variety of human diseases ranging from localized skin suppuration and food poisoning to life threatening presentations such as septicemia and endocarditis. Several clinical isolates of S. aureus have recently been identified that are resistant to all currently available antibacterial therapies. Consequently, the identification of new antimicrobial targets in this organism is of paramount importance. The purpose of this study was to investigate the in vitro effects of Clofoctol on S. aureus.

Ultrastructural examination of S. aureus revealed a population of actively dividing cells.