Epsilonproteobacteria

Epsilonproteobacteria (pronunciation: /ɛpˌsaɪ.lɒnˌproʊ.ti.oʊ.bækˈtɪər.i.ə/) is a class of Proteobacteria that includes a number of important pathogens, such as Helicobacter pylori and Campylobacter jejuni.

Etymology

The term "Epsilonproteobacteria" is derived from the fifth letter of the Greek alphabet, epsilon (ε), indicating it as the fifth group of the Proteobacteria phylum. The suffix "-bacteria" comes from the Greek βακτήριον (baktērion), meaning "small rod", which is a reference to the shape of many bacteria.

Description

Epsilonproteobacteria are a diverse group of Gram-negative bacteria that are highly motile, with a characteristic rod or spiral shape. They are typically microaerophilic, meaning they thrive in low-oxygen environments. Many species are also chemolithoautotrophic, meaning they derive energy from inorganic compounds and can synthesize all necessary organic compounds from CO2.

Pathogenicity

Several species of Epsilonproteobacteria are known to cause disease in humans. For example, Helicobacter pylori is associated with peptic ulcers and gastric cancer, while Campylobacter jejuni is a common cause of bacterial gastroenteritis.

Related Terms

Proteobacteria: The phylum to which Epsilonproteobacteria belongs.
Helicobacter pylori: A species of Epsilonproteobacteria that can cause stomach ulcers and cancer.
Campylobacter jejuni: Another species of Epsilonproteobacteria that is a common cause of food poisoning.
Gram-negative bacteria: A broad group of bacteria that are classified by the color they turn after a Gram stain test. Epsilonproteobacteria are Gram-negative.
Microaerophilic: Describes organisms that require oxygen to survive, but at lower levels than are present in the atmosphere.
Chemolithoautotrophic: Describes organisms that derive energy from inorganic compounds and can synthesize all necessary organic compounds from CO2.

External links

Medical encyclopedia article on Epsilonproteobacteria
Wikipedia's article - Epsilonproteobacteria

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Epsilonproteobacteria