Veillonella parvula

Veillonella parvula is a species of Gram-negative bacteria, which is anaerobic and non-motile. It is part of the Veillonellaceae family within the order Clostridiales. This bacterium is commonly found in the human intestinal tract, oral microbiome, and various other sites of the body, where it plays a role in the normal flora. Veillonella parvula is known for its ability to metabolize lactate into acetate and propionate, which are important short-chain fatty acids for the host metabolism.

Characteristics

Veillonella parvula is a small, cocci-shaped bacterium that does not form spores. It is typically 0.3 to 0.5 micrometers in diameter. Being a Gram-negative bacterium, it has a characteristic cell wall structure that includes a thin peptidoglycan layer and an outer membrane containing lipopolysaccharides. Veillonella parvula is strictly anaerobic, meaning it requires environments devoid of oxygen to grow.

Habitat and Ecology

This bacterium is predominantly found in the human body, particularly in the oral cavity, gastrointestinal tract, and vaginal microbiota. It contributes to the health of the host by participating in the metabolic conversion of lactate, produced by other bacteria during carbohydrate fermentation, into short-chain fatty acids. These acids are beneficial for the host as they can be used as energy sources by the host cells and help in maintaining the pH balance in the gut.

Clinical Significance

While Veillonella parvula is generally considered a commensal organism, it has been associated with various infections, including dental and periodontal diseases, bacteremia, and osteomyelitis. Its presence in the oral cavity has been linked to the development of dental plaque and periodontal disease due to its metabolic activities. In rare cases, it can become pathogenic, especially in individuals with compromised immune systems, leading to more severe infections.

Diagnosis and Treatment

The diagnosis of infections caused by Veillonella parvula involves the isolation and identification of the bacterium from clinical specimens. This is typically done using anaerobic culture techniques and biochemical tests. Treatment usually involves the administration of antibiotics, although Veillonella parvula has shown resistance to certain antibiotics, making susceptibility testing important for effective treatment.

Research and Future Directions

Research on Veillonella parvula has been focused on understanding its role in the human microbiome and its interactions with other microorganisms. Studies are also being conducted to explore its potential in biotechnological applications, such as the production of propionate, which has various industrial uses. Further research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms behind its pathogenicity and to develop more effective treatments for infections caused by this bacterium.