Bacillus subtilis
Bacillus subtilis
Bacillus subtilis (pronounced /bəˈsɪləs sʌbˈtɪlɪs/), also known as the hay bacillus or grass bacillus, is a Gram-positive, catalase-positive bacterium, found in soil and the gastrointestinal tract of ruminants and humans.
Etymology
The name Bacillus subtilis originates from the Latin bacillus meaning 'small rod' and subtilis meaning 'fine'.
Characteristics
Bacillus subtilis is a rod-shaped, spore-forming bacterium that is classified as a facultative anaerobe, meaning it can survive in both oxygen-rich and oxygen-poor environments. It is capable of endospore formation, a process that allows the bacterium to survive in harsh conditions.
Role in Medicine
In medicine, Bacillus subtilis is known for its role in antibiotic production. It is used in the industrial production of the antibiotic Bacitracin, which is effective against many Gram-positive pathogens.
Bacillus subtilis is also used as a probiotic in humans and animals. It has been shown to improve gastrointestinal health and boost the immune system.
Related Terms
- Gram-positive bacteria
- Catalase
- Rod-shaped bacteria
- Spore-forming bacteria
- Facultative anaerobe
- Endospore
- Antibiotic
- Bacitracin
- Probiotic
- Gastrointestinal health
- Immune system
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Bacillus subtilis
- Wikipedia's article - Bacillus subtilis
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