| Description | Streptococcus gallolyticus is a Gram-positive, spherical-shaped bacterium that thrives in mesophilic temperatures, classified as a chemoheterotroph, and can be found in various body sites of humans, including the gastrointestinal tract, bloodstream, and liver, across different species. As a facultative anaerobe, Streptococcus gallolyticus can survive in both aerobic and anaerobic environments, adapting its metabolic processes to the available oxygen levels. The Gram-positive cell wall of Streptococcus gallolyticus provides it with resistance to certain environmental stresses, while its spherical shape allows for efficient nutrient uptake and cell division. As a mesophile, it grows best in temperatures between 20-45°C, making it well-suited to the human body's temperature range. As a chemoheterotroph, Streptococcus gallolyticus relies on organic compounds for energy and carbon, utilizing a variety of sugars and amino acids for growth. Its ability to inhabit multiple body sites is attributed to its facultative anaerobic nature, allowing it to thrive in areas with varying oxygen levels. This adaptability contributes to its role in certain diseases, such as colorectal cancer and endocarditis. Streptococcus gallolyticus has been found to have a strong association with colorectal cancer, with studies suggesting that its presence in the gut may contribute to the development of this disease. Additionally, its unique genetic makeup has led to the discovery of novel virulence factors and potential therapeutic targets, making it a significant focus of research in the field of microbiology and disease prevention. |
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