| Description | Ochrobactrum anthropi is a gram-negative, rod-shaped bacterium that thrives as a facultative anaerobe and prefers mesophilic temperatures, making it well-suited to the human body, where it is often found in various body sites. It is classified as a chemoheterotroph, relying on organic compounds for its energy and carbon needs. This bacterium is primarily isolated from clinical specimens, including blood, urine, and wound swabs, reflecting its opportunistic nature in both healthy and immunocompromised individuals. The gram-negative characteristic indicates the bacterium has a thin peptidoglycan layer surrounded by an outer membrane, which contains lipopolysaccharides, contributing to its pathogenic potential. Its rod shape, a common morphology among bacteria, allows for efficient movement and colonization. As a facultative anaerobe, Ochrobactrum anthropi can survive in both the presence and absence of oxygen, allowing it to adapt to various environments within the human body. This adaptability is further enhanced by its chemoheterotrophic metabolism, enabling it to utilize diverse organic substrates for growth. Ochrobactrum anthropi is primarily known as an opportunistic pathogen, particularly in individuals with compromised immune systems, such as those with medical devices like catheters or prostheses. It has been associated with infections that range from urinary tract infections to more severe sepsis. Its ability to form biofilms on medical devices makes it challenging to eradicate. Interestingly, Ochrobactrum anthropi is also found in diverse environments beyond the human body, including soil and water, indicating its role in ecological processes, such as biodegradation, that contribute to nutrient cycling in different ecosystems. |
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