| Description | Morganella morganii is a Gram-negative, rod-shaped bacterium that thrives at moderate temperatures (mesophilic) and is classified as a chemoheterotroph, relying on organic compounds for its nutritional needs. This versatile microbe is commonly found in diverse environments, including the intestinal tracts of humans and animals, as well as in soil and water, showcasing its ability to inhabit various body sites and ecological niches. As a Gram-negative organism, Morganella morganii possesses a thin peptidoglycan layer surrounded by an outer membrane rich in lipopolysaccharides, which play a significant role in its pathogenicity and resistance to certain antibiotics. Its rod shape facilitates motility and colonization in host environments. Being mesophilic, it optimally grows at temperatures ranging from 30°C to 37°C, which coincides with the typical human body temperature, making it an effective pathogen in humans. As a chemoheterotroph, Morganella morganii derives energy and carbon from organic compounds, often utilizing amino acids and organic acids found in its environment. Its facultative anaerobic nature allows it to survive in both aerobic and anaerobic conditions, making it adaptable to varying oxygen levels during infections or in environmental settings. Morganella morganii is primarily known for its role in human pathology, particularly as an opportunistic pathogen. It can be responsible for urinary tract infections, wound infections, and bacteremia, especially in immunocompromised individuals. In addition to its clinical significance, it is capable of producing urease, an enzyme that facilitates the hydrolysis of urea into ammonia, potentially leading to alkaline urine and stones in the urinary tract. Overall, Morganella morganii's adaptability, pathogenic potential, and enzymatic abilities highlight its importance in both clinical microbiology and environmental ecosystems. |
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