| Description | Leptotrichia goodfellowii is a Gram-negative, rod-shaped microbe that thrives in mesophilic temperatures, categorized as a Chemoheterotroph, and can be found in various body sites, including the oral cavity, gastrointestinal tract, and genitourinary tract, across different species, and is an Obligate Anaerobe. The Gram-negative characteristic is attributed to the composition of its cell wall, which contains a thinner peptidoglycan layer compared to Gram-positive bacteria. Its rod-shaped morphology allows it to inhabit and colonize a wide range of environments. As a mesophile, Leptotrichia goodfellowii grows best in moderate temperatures, typically between 20-45°C.As a Chemoheterotroph, Leptotrichia goodfellowii relies on chemical reactions to obtain energy and requires organic compounds as a source of carbon. This characteristic enables the microbe to thrive in diverse environments, including the human body, where it can feed on various organic substrates. The presence of Leptotrichia goodfellowii in different body sites suggests its ability to adapt and colonize various niches.As an Obligate Anaerobe, Leptotrichia goodfellowii is strictly dependent on the absence of oxygen to survive and grow, which is a critical factor in its cultivation and study. This requirement is likely due to the microbe's sensitive metabolic pathways, which are inhibited or damaged by the presence of oxygen. Leptotrichia goodfellowii has been implicated in various infections, including periodontal diseases and bacteremia, highlighting its potential pathogenic role in human health. The microbe's ability to produce volatile sulfur compounds contributes to its role in oral malodor and periodontal disease. |
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