Burkholderia cepacia complex

Burkholderia cepacia complex (BCC) is a group of Gram-negative bacteria that are commonly found in the environment, particularly in soil and water. They are named after Walter Burkholder, who first isolated the type species, Burkholderia cepacia, in the 1950s. The complex is composed of at least 20 different species, all of which are capable of surviving in a wide range of environments.

Taxonomy

The BCC is part of the Burkholderia genus, which is itself part of the Burkholderiaceae family. The complex was initially thought to contain a single species, B. cepacia, but further research has revealed that it is composed of at least 20 distinct species. These include Burkholderia multivorans, Burkholderia cenocepacia, and Burkholderia vietnamiensis, among others.

Characteristics

BCC bacteria are rod-shaped, motile, and capable of surviving in a wide range of environments. They are aerobic organisms, meaning they require oxygen to survive. They are also capable of nitrogen fixation, a process that allows them to convert atmospheric nitrogen into a form that can be used by plants.

Pathogenicity

While BCC bacteria are generally harmless to healthy individuals, they can cause serious infections in people with weakened immune systems, such as those with cystic fibrosis or chronic granulomatous disease. Infections caused by BCC bacteria are often difficult to treat due to their inherent resistance to many common antibiotics.

Treatment

Treatment of BCC infections typically involves a combination of antibiotics, although the bacteria's resistance to many of these drugs can make treatment challenging. In some cases, lung transplantation may be considered for individuals with severe lung disease caused by BCC infection.

Research

Research into BCC is ongoing, with scientists working to better understand the complex's biology and pathogenicity, as well as to develop more effective treatments for BCC infections.