| Description | Brucella intermedia is a small, gram-negative, rod-shaped bacterium that exhibits a preference for mesophilic temperatures (optimal growth around 37°C) and is classified as a chemoheterotroph. This microbe is primarily found in diverse body sites in various animal species, particularly in the reproductive and lymphatic tissues, playing a significant role in zoonotic infections. As a gram-negative organism, B. intermedia possesses a thin peptidoglycan layer surrounded by an outer membrane, which contains lipopolysaccharides. This structural feature contributes to its pathogenicity and ability to evade the host's immune response. The rod shape enhances its surface area-to-volume ratio, facilitating efficient nutrient absorption from the host environment, which underscores its classification as a chemoheterotroph. B. intermedia relies on organic compounds as a source of carbon and energy, making it dependent on host organisms for survival and reproduction. This microbe is categorized under microaerophiles, thriving in environments with low oxygen concentrations. It can adapt to fluctuating oxygen levels within host tissues, which allows it to persist in various niches and contribute to chronic infections, particularly in livestock and occasionally in humans. One notable aspect of Brucella intermedia is its ability to establish long-term infections, which can lead to serious health implications, such as brucellosis, in susceptible hosts. This disease is characterized by symptoms like fever, malaise, and musculoskeletal pain. The bacterium’s ability to persist in macrophages is a significant factor in its virulence, allowing it to evade detection and destruction by the host immune system. Understanding the unique characteristics and pathogenic mechanisms of B. intermedia is essential for developing effective treatments and control measures against infections caused by this microbe. |
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