PORPHYROMONAS Meaning and
Definition
-
Porphyromonas is a genus of Gram-negative, anaerobic bacteria belonging to the family Porphyromonadaceae. This genus is composed of rod-shaped bacteria that typically lack flagella, making them non-motile. They are commonly found in the oral cavity, especially in dental plaque, as well as in other mucosal surfaces of humans and animals.
The bacteria of the Porphyromonas genus are known for their ability to ferment carbohydrates, producing various metabolic products such as short-chain fatty acids, ammonia, and organic acids. They are also recognized for their pathogenic potential and involvement in several oral and extraoral infections. Porphyromonas species have been associated with periodontitis, a common chronic inflammatory disease of the gums, as well as various endodontic infections and infections in other body sites including the respiratory tract, urinary tract, and cardiovascular system.
The pathogenicity of Porphyromonas is attributed to the virulence factors they possess, including enzymes that degrade connective tissues, toxins, and lipopolysaccharides. These virulence factors allow Porphyromonas to evade the host immune response and promote tissue destruction.
Due to the clinical significance of these bacteria, identification and characterization of Porphyromonas species are crucial in the diagnosis and treatment of associated infections. This can be achieved through various microbiological techniques, including DNA sequencing and biochemical tests. Understanding Porphyromonas and its role in infections aids in the development of targeted therapies and preventive strategies.
Common Misspellings for PORPHYROMONAS
Etymology of PORPHYROMONAS
The word "Porphyromonas" has its etymology rooted in Greek. It is derived from two Greek words: "porphyra", meaning "purple", and "monas", meaning "unit" or "organism".
The genus name "Porphyromonas" was coined to describe a group of Gram-negative bacteria that exhibit a purple or reddish-brown pigment. This pigmentation is primarily due to the presence of porphyrin, a pigment molecule that gives the bacteria their distinctive color. The bacteria are anaerobic and belong to the phylum Bacteroidetes.
