| Description | Prevotella intermedia is a Gram-negative, anaerobic microbe that thrives in a wide range of temperatures, falling under the category of mesophiles. As a heterotroph, it obtains its energy by breaking down organic compounds. The microbe produces energy through anaerobic respiration, specifically via fermentation, which involves the conversion of glucose into lactic acid. Its metabolic processes are facilitated by the presence of enzymes such as lactate dehydrogenase. The Gram-stained smear of P. intermedia reveals a distinctive silver-gray color, characteristic of Gram-negative bacteria. Morphologically, the microbe exhibits a rod-shaped morphology, typically between 0.5-1.5 μm in length and 0.1-0.5 μm in width. P. intermedia is found in various body sites, including the oral cavity, respiratory tract, genital tract, and gastrointestinal tract, of both humans and animals. Its anaerobic nature allows it to colonize niches with low oxygen levels, such as periodontal pockets and the human gut. As an obligate anaerobe, P. intermedia requires a lack of oxygen to survive. In the presence of oxygen, the microbe may experience oxidative stress, leading to damage or even death. However, its ability to thrive in anaerobic environments enables it to play a significant role in the breakdown of complex organic matter. In addition to its ecological importance, P. intermedia has been implicated in various diseases, including periodontitis, respiratory infections, and female genital tract infections. Its ability to degrade complex organic compounds also contributes to its involvement in dental caries and dental implant failures. Despite its pathogenic potential, P. intermedia is an essential member of the human microbiome, playing a vital role in decomposing organic matter and recycling nutrients. |
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