Dermabacteraceae

Dermabacteraceae is a family of Gram-positive bacteria within the order Micrococcales, class Actinobacteria. This family of bacteria was first described by Stackebrandt et al. in 1997. Members of the Dermabacteraceae family are characterized by their diverse morphological features and habitats, ranging from human skin to environmental samples.

Characteristics

Dermabacteraceae are typically non-motile, non-spore-forming, and aerobic. The bacteria in this family are also known for their Gram-positive cell wall structure, which is thick and contains a high amount of peptidoglycan. They can be cocci or rod-shaped and often form clusters.

Genera

The family Dermabacteraceae includes several genera, among which the most well-known are:

• Dermabacter
• Brachybacterium
• Helcobacillus
• Devriesea

Each genus within the family has unique characteristics and can be distinguished by their specific physiological and genetic traits.

Ecology

Members of the Dermabacteraceae family are found in a variety of environments. Some species are commensals on human and animal skin, while others have been isolated from environmental sources such as soil and water. Their ability to inhabit different environments suggests a versatile metabolic capacity.

Clinical Relevance

Some species within the Dermabacteraceae family are known to be opportunistic pathogens, particularly in immunocompromised individuals. They can cause a range of infections, including skin infections and other more serious conditions. However, the pathogenic potential of most species in this family is relatively low compared to other bacterial families.

Research

Research on Dermabacteraceae has focused on understanding their role in human health and disease, as well as their potential applications in biotechnology. Studies have explored their antimicrobial properties and their interactions with other microorganisms, which could have implications for developing new antibacterial strategies.

See also

• Microbiology
• Bacterial taxonomy
• Opportunistic pathogen