Fusobacterium nucleatum
A Microbial Biorealm page on the genus Fusobacterium nucleatum
Classification
Higher order taxa
root; cellular organisms; Bacteria; Fusobacteria; Fusobacteria (class); Fusobacteriaceae; Fusobacterales; Fusobacterium
Genus
Fusobacterium
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NCBI: Taxonomy |
Description and significance
Describe the appearance, habitat, etc. of the organism, and why it is important enough to have its genome sequenced. Describe how and where it was isolated. Include a picture or two (with sources) if you can find them.
Fusobacterium nucleatum is a bacterium that is commonly found in the dental plaque of humans and is frequently associated with gum disease. The cells of F. nucleatum are fusiform rods or spindle-shaped of many different lengths. F. nucleatum is found in the dental plaque of many primates, thus includes man. This bacteria has been experimented to play a central role in dental plaque formation. This is due to its ability to adhere to a wide range of both Gram-positive and Gram-negative plaque microorganisms, such as Porphyromonas gingivalis. F. nucleatum is very much associated with periodontitis, along with invasive human infections of the head and neck, chest, lung, liver and abdomen. Due to its adherence ability, it can be associated with viruses, which adhere to host tissue cells as an invasion and modulate the host's immune response.
Native plasmids have been identified in strains of F. nucleatum. Using one of the native plasmid pFN1, a F. nucleatum - E. coli shuttle vector has been developed.
Bacillus licheniformis is part of the subtilis group along with Bacillus subtilis and Bacillus pumilus. These bacteria are commonly known to cause food poisoning and food spoilage. Bacillus licheniformis also is known for contaminating dairy products. Food borne outbreaks usually involve cases of cooked meats and vegetables, raw milk, and industrially produced baby food contaminated with Bacillus licheniformis.
Genome structure
Describe the size and content of the genome. How many chromosomes? Circular or linear? Other interesting features? What is known about its sequence? Does it have any plasmids? Are they important to the organism's lifestyle?
Bacillus Licheniformis is a Gram positive, thermophillic bacterium. Its optimal growth temperature is 50°C, but it can also survive at much higher temperatures. Its optimal temperature for
Cell structure and metabolism
Describe any interesting features and/or cell structures; how it gains energy; what important molecules it produces.
Ecology
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Pathology
How does this organism cause disease? Human, animal, plant hosts? Virulence factors, as well as patient symptoms.
Application to Biotechnology
Does this organism produce any useful compounds or enzymes? What are they and how are they used?
Current Research
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References
Edited by Jason Homan, student of Rachel Larsen and Kit Pogliano
