| Description | Actinomyces viscosus is a gram-positive, facultatively anaerobic bacterium that thrives in temperatures ranging from 25°C to 40°C, with an optimal temperature of 37°C, falls under the category of "warm temperature microbe". As a chemoheterotroph, A. viscosus obtains its energy by breaking down complex organic compounds, such as carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, and derives its energy through the process of cellular respiration. A. viscosus is a rod-shaped bacterium, typically measuring 0.5-1.0 μm in width and 2.0-5.0 μm in length, with a few branching filaments. It is found in various body sites, including the oral cavity, respiratory tract, skin, and gastrointestinal tract, and is a common inhabitant of the human microbiome. As an obligate aerobe, A. viscosus is highly dependent on the presence of oxygen for its growth and survival. However, it can tolerate low oxygen levels and switch to anaerobic respiration when necessary, making it a facultative anaerobe. This adaptation allows it to thrive in environments with varying oxygen levels. In addition to its physiological adaptations, A. viscosus has been implicated in various diseases, including periodontitis, endocarditis, and meningitis, particularly in individuals with compromised immune systems. Furthermore, its ability to form biofilms on surfaces contributes to its persistence in the environment and its potential to cause or exacerbate infections. Despite its pathogenic potential, A. viscosus is also a valuable model organism for understanding the mechanisms of antibiotic resistance and for developing novel antimicrobial strategies. Its unique characteristics make it an attractive target for further research, with potential applications in the development of novel therapeutics and biomaterials. |
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