Description | Parabacteroides johnsonii is a gram-negative, rod-shaped microbe that thrives in mesophilic temperatures, classified as a chemoheterotroph, and can be found in various body sites, including the gut, skin, and oral cavity, across different species. As a chemoheterotroph, P. johnsonii relies on organic compounds for energy and carbon, breaking down complex molecules to sustain its growth. Its gram-negative characteristic is due to the presence of a thin peptidoglycan layer in its cell wall, which is typically associated with a higher resistance to environmental stresses. The rod-shaped morphology of P. johnsonii allows for efficient movement and colonization in its preferred environments. This microbe is an obligate anaerobe, requiring the absence of oxygen to survive, which is reflected in its optimal growth conditions. The mesophilic temperature preference of P. johnsonii indicates that it grows best in moderate temperatures, typically between 20-40°C, which is consistent with its presence in human and animal hosts. As a chemoheterotroph, P. johnsonii plays a crucial role in decomposing organic matter and contributing to the nutrient cycle in various ecosystems. Its ability to thrive in different body sites, including the gut, skin, and oral cavity, highlights its adaptability and potential impact on host health. P. johnsonii has been implicated in the production of short-chain fatty acids, which can have anti-inflammatory effects on the host, and its presence has been linked to improved immune function and digestive health. |
---|