Figure 8. Schematic diagram of the proposed mechanism of action of CSP-4 based on a Toll-like receptor-mediated immune response against DRSA.

CSP-4 rapidly disrupts the S. aureus cell membrane using a carpet-like mechanism, whereby CSP-4 quickly interacts with the inner membrane through its electrostatic interaction with LTA. CSP-4 interacted with S. aureus membranes contain LTA, which binds to TLR-2 on immune cells such as macrophages. This activates the NF-κB signaling pathway and induces the production of cathelicidin and other peptides that combat microorganisms.