Enterococcus durans

Species of bacterium

Enterococcus durans is a species of Gram-positive bacteria within the genus Enterococcus. It is a facultative anaerobic organism, meaning it can survive in both oxygen-rich and oxygen-poor environments. E. durans is commonly found in the gastrointestinal tract of humans and animals, and it is also present in various environmental sources such as soil and water.

Characteristics

Enterococcus durans is a non-motile, non-spore-forming bacterium. It is characterized by its ability to grow in a wide range of temperatures and pH levels. The cells are typically ovoid and occur in pairs or short chains. E. durans is catalase-negative and can hydrolyze esculin in the presence of bile.

Pathogenicity

While Enterococcus durans is generally considered a commensal organism, it can act as an opportunistic pathogen. It has been implicated in various infections, particularly in immunocompromised individuals. These infections can include urinary tract infections, bacteremia, and endocarditis. The pathogenic potential of E. durans is partly due to its intrinsic resistance to many common antibiotics, which complicates treatment.

Antibiotic Resistance

Enterococcus durans exhibits resistance to several antibiotics, including aminoglycosides and beta-lactams. This resistance is often mediated by the presence of specific genes that can be transferred to other bacteria, contributing to the spread of antibiotic resistance. The ability of E. durans to acquire and disseminate resistance genes makes it a significant concern in clinical settings.

Applications

Despite its potential pathogenicity, Enterococcus durans is also used in the food industry. It is involved in the fermentation of certain dairy products, where it contributes to the development of flavor and texture. The bacterium's ability to produce bacteriocins, which are antimicrobial peptides, is exploited to inhibit the growth of spoilage organisms and pathogens in food.

Related pages

• Enterococcus
• Gram-positive bacteria
• Antibiotic resistance
• Bacteriocin