| Description | Olsenella profusa is a Gram-positive, coccoid-shaped bacterium that thrives in a mesophilic temperature range, classified as a chemoheterotroph. This microbe predominantly resides in various body sites across multiple species, notably within the human gastrointestinal tract and oral cavity, where it plays a role in the complex microbiota. Being Gram-positive, Olsenella profusa stains violet in the Gram stain process, indicating a thick peptidoglycan layer in its cell wall. This structural feature contributes to its resilience in the competitive microbial environment of the gut. Its coccoid shape allows for close aggregation with other bacteria, facilitating metabolic exchanges and symbiotic relationships.As a mesophile, Olsenella profusa prefers moderate temperatures, typically around 30-37 degrees Celsius, which aligns with the internal body temperature of its host, making it well-adapted for colonization. The classification as a chemoheterotroph signifies that Olsenella profusa relies on organic compounds as both its carbon source and energy, breaking down various nutrients present in the intestines or oral cavity. Its anaerobic nature, categorized as an obligate anaerobe, means that Olsenella profusa thrives in environments devoid of oxygen, making it well-suited for life in the gastrointestinal tract, where oxygen levels are low. In this niche, it contributes to the overall metabolic dynamics, including fermentation processes, influencing gut health and overall microbiome balance. Emerging research indicates that Olsenella profusa may have implications for human health, particularly concerning its association with periodontal disease. This organism's ability to metabolize specific carbohydrates could affect inflammation and microbial diversity, presenting both therapeutic and pathogenic potential in oral health contexts. |
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