Arthrobacter cumminsii

Arthrobacter cumminsii is a species of bacteria within the genus Arthrobacter, which is part of the family Micrococcaceae. This species was first described in 1996 by Funke et al. It is known for its distinctive morphology and its ability to survive in various environments.

Morphology

Arthrobacter cumminsii is a Gram-positive bacterium, which means it retains the crystal violet stain used in the Gram staining procedure. The cells are typically coccoid or rod-shaped, and they exhibit a characteristic snapping division, which is common among members of the genus Arthrobacter. This snapping division results in the formation of angular arrangements of cells.

Physiology

Arthrobacter cumminsii is an aerobic organism, requiring oxygen for growth. It is catalase-positive, meaning it can decompose hydrogen peroxide into water and oxygen, a common trait among aerobic bacteria. The species is also oxidase-negative, which indicates it does not produce cytochrome c oxidase, an enzyme involved in the electron transport chain.

Habitat

Arthrobacter cumminsii is commonly found in soil environments, where it plays a role in the degradation of organic matter. It has also been isolated from clinical specimens, indicating its potential as an opportunistic pathogen in humans.

Pathogenicity

While Arthrobacter cumminsii is primarily a soil bacterium, it has been isolated from human clinical specimens, suggesting it can act as an opportunistic pathogen. Infections are rare but have been documented in immunocompromised individuals. The clinical significance of A. cumminsii is still under investigation, and its pathogenic mechanisms are not well understood.

Biochemical Characteristics

Arthrobacter cumminsii exhibits a range of biochemical activities that can be used for its identification in the laboratory. It is capable of utilizing various carbon sources and can grow on media containing glucose, sucrose, and other carbohydrates. The bacterium does not produce acid from glucose fermentation, which is a distinguishing feature from other related species.

Genomic Features

The genome of Arthrobacter cumminsii has been sequenced, revealing insights into its metabolic capabilities and potential virulence factors. The genome contains genes encoding for enzymes involved in the degradation of complex organic compounds, which is consistent with its ecological role in soil.

Clinical Relevance

Although infections caused by Arthrobacter cumminsii are rare, they can occur in hospital settings, particularly in patients with weakened immune systems. The bacterium has been isolated from blood, urine, and wound cultures. Treatment typically involves the use of antibiotics, although specific susceptibility patterns may vary.

Research and Applications

Research on Arthrobacter cumminsii is ongoing, with studies focusing on its ecological role, potential biotechnological applications, and clinical significance. The bacterium's ability to degrade environmental pollutants makes it a candidate for bioremediation efforts.

See Also

• Arthrobacter
• Micrococcaceae
• Gram-positive bacteria
• Opportunistic pathogen

External Links

• [Link to relevant database or resource]