Fusobacterium mortiferum ATCC 9817

Fusobacterium mortiferum ATCC 9817 is a Gram-negative, rod-shaped bacterium classified as a chemoheterotroph, with a preference for an anaerobic environment, specifically as an obligate anaerobe. This microbe thrives in environments devoid of oxygen, making it particularly notable for its association with human tissues, predominantly found in the gastrointestinal tract, oral cavity, and occasionally in deeper tissues during infections. As a Gram-negative organism, F. mortiferum possesses a thin peptidoglycan layer and an outer membrane rich in lipopolysaccharides, which contribute to its pathogenic potential and resistance to certain antibiotics. Its rod shape, or bacillus structure, facilitates motility and colonization within various tissues.F. mortiferum is typically found in anaerobic conditions, such as within abscesses or infected wounds, where oxygen levels are low. Its role as a chemoheterotroph implies that it derives energy and carbon from organic compounds, often leading to its involvement in complex biofilms, especially in the oral cavity. This characteristic is particularly relevant in understanding its implications in periodontal diseases and other infections, where it can aggregate with other bacteria in the mouth. Research has highlighted that F. mortiferum can produce virulence factors, including toxins and enzymes, which contribute to its pathogenicity. This microbe is not only of clinical importance due to its association with various infections, but it also plays a role in the complex microbial ecosystems within the human body. Its presence in the gut microbiome suggests potential influences on human health, emphasizing the delicate balance between commensal and pathogenic relationships of bacteria within our microbiota.