Streptococcus salivarius is a type of bacteria commonly found in human saliva. The spelling of this word can be explained through its IPA phonetic transcription: /strɛptoʊˈkɑkəs səˌlɪvɛriəs/. The first syllable "strep" is pronounced with a long "e" sound, followed by "toh" and "kak" with a short "a" and "o". The second word "salivarius" is pronounced as "sə-liv-ɛr-ee-uhs", with the stress on the second syllable. This unique combination of syllables and sounds creates the proper pronunciation of this scientific term.
Streptococcus salivarius is a species of Gram-positive bacteria that belongs to the genus Streptococcus. It is a facultatively anaerobic and non-spore-forming bacterium commonly found in the oral cavity of humans. The name "Streptococcus" is derived from the Greek words "strepto" meaning twisted or chain-like, and "kokkos" meaning berry or grain, referring to its characteristic chain-like arrangement under a microscope.
S. salivarius is a commensal bacterium, meaning it typically coexists harmlessly with its human host. It is predominantly found in saliva and various oral surfaces, such as the teeth, tongue, and throat. This bacterium has evolved to metabolize specific compounds found in saliva, such as carbohydrates, proteins, and lipids, which aids in its survival and colonization within the oral cavity.
Although generally considered non-pathogenic, S. salivarius has been associated with certain opportunistic infections. It is known to have a role in the prevention of dental caries and periodontal diseases by competing with more harmful bacteria for resources. Additionally, S. salivarius has been utilized as a probiotic in various formulations since it has shown potential health benefits, including antimicrobial activity against certain pathogens, immune modulating properties, and colonization resistance against harmful bacteria.
In conclusion, Streptococcus salivarius is a species of bacteria commonly found in the human oral cavity, which coexists with the host as part of the natural oral microbiota. It plays a role in maintaining oral health and has potential therapeutic applications due to its probiotic properties.
A short-chained streptococcus occurring in the saliva and also throughout the alimentary canal; it is found in chronic forms of malignant endocarditis and not infrequently in terminal infections.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "Streptococcus" originates from the combination of two Greek words, "streptos" meaning "twisted" or "curved", and "kokkos" meaning "berry" or "grain". The term was coined by the Austrian surgeon and bacteriologist Theodor Billroth in the 19th century to describe the bacteria's characteristic chain-like (twisted) arrangement of spherical cells.
On the other hand, "salivarius" is derived from the Latin word "saliva", meaning "spit" or "saliva", which refers to the bacterium's association with the oral cavity. Hence, the etymology of "Streptococcus salivarius" combines elements from both Greek and Latin to describe the curved, chain-like bacteria that is commonly found in saliva.