Abstract: The present composition combines an RNAIII-inhibiting peptide (RIP) with an antimicrobial peptide, such as a cathelicidin, that is capable of binding and neutralizing lipidic and polyanionic components of bacterial cell envelope. In another embodiment, the RIP is combined with an antibiotic, with or without an antimicrobial peptide. The present composition is advantageously used in a method of treatment of bacterial sepsis.

Abstract: A biologically pure RNAIII inhibiting peptide (RIP), that includes five contiguous amino acids of the sequence YX2PX1TNF, where X1 is C, W, I or a modified amino acid, and X2 is K or S is provided. The RIP further includes amino acids having a sequence that differs from the sequence YX2PX1TNF by two substitutions or deletions, where X1 is C, W, I or a modified amino acid, and X2 is K or S. This agent offers improved protection against and treatment of staphylococcal infections, and related bacteria infections, in mammals.

Abstract: The bacterial protein OpuCA, an intracellular part of an ABC transporter, has been shown to interact directly with TRAP. The present invention provides methods and compositions directed at interfering with the interaction between OpuCA and TRAP. The resulting inhibition of TRAP advantageously will reduce pathogenesis of all bacteria that utilize this pathway. The present invention further provides methods and compositions directed at interfering with the interaction between TRAP and the extracellular substrate binding protein OpuCC, or the membrane-associated proteins OpuCB and OpuCD, which, like OpuCA, are encoded by the bacterial OpuC operon. Accordingly, the present methods and compositions will be useful in treating diseases caused by such bacteria.