Microaerophile

Microaerophile is a type of organism that requires oxygen to survive, but also requires environments containing lower levels of oxygen than are present in the atmosphere. These organisms are not capable of surviving under normal atmospheric concentrations of oxygen, which is approximately 21%. They are typically found in environments such as soil and the human gastrointestinal tract.

Characteristics

Microaerophiles are adapted to environments with low oxygen concentrations through various physiological mechanisms. These include the production of enzymes such as superoxide dismutase and catalase, which help to neutralize harmful oxygen-derived free radicals. Additionally, many microaerophiles are capable of fermentation, a metabolic process that does not require oxygen.

Examples

Several important pathogens are microaerophiles, including Helicobacter pylori, which causes stomach ulcers and Campylobacter jejuni, a leading cause of bacterial gastroenteritis. Other examples include certain species of the genus Borrelia, which are responsible for diseases such as Lyme disease and relapsing fever.

Cultivation

Cultivating microaerophiles in a laboratory setting can be challenging due to their specific oxygen requirements. Techniques used to create a microaerophilic environment include the use of gas-generating sachets or systems, and the use of a microaerophilic chamber.

See also

• Aerobic organism
• Anaerobic organism
• Facultative anaerobic organism
• Capnophile

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