Streptomyces cellulosae is a soil-dwelling bacterium known for its ability to produce bioactive secondary metabolites, including antibiotics. One of its most notable products is cephalosporin C, the precursor to the cephalosporin class of antibiotics. Cephalosporins are clinically important for their broad-spectrum antibacterial activity, including efficacy against Staphylococcus species, such as Staphylococcus aureus. The discovery and development of cephalosporins, beginning in the mid-20th century, were scientifically rigorous, and their use is based on extensive laboratory and clinical research. Cephalosporin antibiotics interfere with bacterial cell wall synthesis, resulting in the death of susceptible bacteria, which includes many strains of staphylococci, even those that are penicillin-resistant.

Although Streptomyces cellulosae itself is not directly administered to patients, its metabolites—specifically cephalosporins derived from it—are foundational in the treatment of staph infections. The evidence supporting their use is robust, including randomized controlled trials, in vitro studies, and decades of clinical experience. However, it is important to note that resistance can develop, and not all strains of Staphylococcus aureus (e.g., MRSA) remain susceptible to all cephalosporins. Nevertheless, the link between Streptomyces cellulosae and effective staph infection treatment via cephalosporin antibiotics is a well-established example of scientific discovery translating to clinical practice.