| Description | Clostridium difficile CD196 is a gram-positive, rod-shaped bacterium that thrives at mesophilic temperatures (20-45°C) and is classified as a chemotroph and an obligate anaerobe. This microbe is widely known for inhabiting the human gastrointestinal tract, particularly in the colon, where it can exist in a symbiotic relationship with other gut flora under normal conditions. However, it becomes pathogenic under circumstances of dysbiosis, often following antibiotic treatment that disrupts the balance of gut microbiota. The gram-positive characteristic of Clostridium difficile CD196 indicates a thick peptidoglycan layer in its cell wall, which offers protection and contributes to its resilience in adverse environments. Its rod shape aids in motility and colonization within the intestines. As a chemotroph, it relies on organic compounds for energy, primarily fermenting carbohydrates and amino acids present in its environment. As an obligate anaerobe, Clostridium difficile CD196 requires an oxygen-free environment for growth and reproduction. This characteristic aligns with its habitat in the gut, a site that is typically low in oxygen. The bacterium can form spores, which are highly resistant to heat, desiccation, and many disinfectants, facilitating its transmission and persistence in healthcare settings. Clostridium difficile infections (CDIs) can lead to symptoms ranging from mild diarrhea to severe colitis, which can sometimes be life-threatening. The bacterium produces toxins that damage the intestinal lining and provoke inflammation. Despite its pathogenicity, strains like CD196 have been studied for their potential use in fecal microbiota transplantation therapies, as they highlight the complex interplay of gut microbiota and host health. |
|---|
