LECTURE - Anaerobes Flashcards
1
Q
these organisms are low in number in the gut but are the anaerobes most commonly found in human infection
A
Bacteroides
2
Q
reactive oxygen species
A
can oxidize and destroy lipids, proteins, iron containing enzymes among other targets
- superoxide anion
- H2O2
- hydroxyl radical
- during oxidation-reduction rxns, molecular O2 reduced stepwise by the addition of electrons*
3
Q
what do aerobic and facultative bacteria have that protect them from ROS?
A
detoxifying mechanisms:
- superoxide dismutase
- catalase
- peroxidase
4
Q
where are anaerobes found? (2)
A
- exogenous organisms from outside our bodies, in soil usually
- endogenous organisms inside our bodies (MORE LIKELY)
5
Q
anaerobic infections are usually…
A
polymicrobial = don’t cause infections by themselves, exacerbate
6
Q
potential virulence factors of anaerobes
A
capsule (promote abscess formation + antiphagocytic), pili
toxins, exoenzymes = all Clostridium
7
Q
hallmarks of an anaerobic infection (7)
A
- infection in close proximity to a mucosal surface
- infection persists despite aminoglycoside therapy
- foul odor
- lots of gas
- black-coloured or brick-red fluorescence
- sulfur granules
- distinct morphologic characteristics in gram stains
7
Q
hallmarks of an anaerobic infection (7)
A
- infection in close proximity to a mucosal surface
- infection persists despite aminoglycoside therapy
- foul odor
- lots of gas
- black-coloured or brick-red fluorescence
- sulfur granules (actinomycosis)
- distinct morphologic characteristics in gram stains
8
Q
which are the predominant flora at mucosal surfaces
A
anaerobes
