| Description | Providencia rettgeri is a gram-negative, rod-shaped bacterium classified as a facultative anaerobe that thrives within moderate temperature ranges and is considered a chemoheterotroph. This versatile microbe is commonly isolated from a variety of body sites, particularly in the gastrointestinal tract of humans and animals, as well as in environmental samples such as soil and water. The gram-negative nature of P. rettgeri indicates its cell wall comprises a thin peptidoglycan layer surrounded by an outer membrane containing lipopolysaccharides, contributing to its pathogenic potential. Its rod shape provides a structural advantage in navigating through various environments. Being a facultative anaerobe allows P. rettgeri to adapt to both aerobic and anaerobic conditions, relying on oxygen when available for respiration, but able to switch to fermentation processes in its absence. This adaptability is crucial for survival in diverse ecological niches, including the human gut. As a chemoheterotroph, P. rettgeri derives its energy and carbon from organic compounds, which it metabolizes to support its growth and reproduction. This bacterium is known for its role in human infection, particularly urinary tract infections (UTIs), and can also be involved in wound infections. It produces urea and is capable of hydrolyzing urea, contributing to its colonization and persistence in the urinary tract. Beyond its pathogenicity, P. rettgeri is of particular interest in biochemical research due to its unique enzymatic capabilities, including those involved in amino acid metabolism and urease production, which are critical for understanding microbial ecology and evolution in diverse environments. Its ability to tolerate varied oxygen levels and organic substrates reflects its significant role in the microbiome and its potential impact on human health. |
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