Neisseriaceae

A family of bacteria including important human pathogens

The Neisseriaceae are a family of bacteria within the order Neisseriales. This family includes several genera, with Neisseria being the most notable due to its pathogenic species that affect humans.

Characteristics

Members of the Neisseriaceae family are typically Gram-negative, non-motile, and often appear as diplococci, meaning they are usually found in pairs. They are aerobic or facultatively anaerobic and are known for their ability to oxidize carbohydrates.

Pathogenic Species

The genus Neisseria includes two significant human pathogens:

• Neisseria gonorrhoeae – the causative agent of gonorrhea, a common sexually transmitted infection.
• Neisseria meningitidis – responsible for meningococcal meningitis and other forms of meningococcal disease.

Neisseria gonorrhoeae

Neisseria gonorrhoeae under a microscope

Neisseria gonorrhoeae is a pathogen that primarily infects the mucous membranes of the reproductive tract, but it can also affect the throat, eyes, and rectum. It is transmitted through sexual contact and can lead to complications such as pelvic inflammatory disease in women and epididymitis in men.

Ecology

Neisseriaceae are commonly found in the mucous membranes of mammals. While some species are pathogenic, others are part of the normal flora of the upper respiratory tract.

Laboratory Identification

In the laboratory, Neisseriaceae can be identified by their morphology, Gram stain characteristics, and their ability to oxidize certain carbohydrates. Neisseria gonorrhoeae and Neisseria meningitidis can be differentiated by their specific carbohydrate utilization patterns and antigenic properties.

Related pages

• Gram-negative bacteria
• Sexually transmitted infection
• Meningitis