| Description | Fusobacterium ulcerans is a Gram-negative, obligate anaerobic bacterium that thrives in a temperature range of 37°C to 44°C, indicative of its human pathogenic nature. Metabolically, it is a chemoorganotroph, relying on the oxidation of organic compounds as its energy source. This microbe produces energy through the process of anaerobic respiration, specifically by utilizing the fermentation pathway. In terms of morphology, F. ulcerans is a rod-shaped bacterium, typically measuring 20-50 μm in length and 0.5-1.0 μm in width. Its ability to inhabit various body sites, including the gastrointestinal tract, genitourinary tract, respiratory tract, and soft tissues, highlights its versatility and adaptability. The Gram stain categorizes F. ulcerans as a Gram-negative bacterium, characterized by its thin peptidoglycan layer and outer membrane. This layer provides limited resistance to antibiotics and antimicrobial peptides, making it challenging to treat infections caused by this microbe. F. ulcerans is found in all body sites of its host, often in association with other microorganisms. Its anaerobic nature necessitates an oxygen-free environment, and it is well-suited to thrive in the anaerobic niches of the human body, such as the gut and abscesses. In its natural habitat, F. ulcerans is an obligate anaerobe, unable to survive in the presence of oxygen. However, it can tolerate low levels of oxygen, which may be beneficial in adapting to its various ecological niches. F. ulcerans is notorious for causing necrotizing fasciitis, a severe and potentially life-threatening skin infection. This microbe's ability to secrete potent extracellular enzymes, such as collagenase and gelatinase, enables it to degrade and destroy tissue, leading to extensive necrosis and tissue destruction. |
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