Campylobacter gracilis RM3268

Campylobacter gracilis RM3268 is a gram-negative, curved rod-shaped bacterium that thrives in a microaerophilic environment, making it a member of the thermophilic campylobacters that prefer elevated temperatures. This organism is classified as a chemoheterotroph, utilizing organic compounds for energy and as a carbon source. Its natural habitat encompasses various body sites in both avian and mammalian species, commonly found in the intestines of poultry and other vertebrates. The gram-negative characteristic of C. gracilis RM3268 denotes its unique cell wall structure, which is thin compared to gram-positive bacteria and is surrounded by an outer membrane containing lipopolysaccharides. This structure plays a significant role in its pathogenicity and resistance to certain environmental stresses. The curved shape of the bacterium contributes to its motility, which is facilitated by a single polar flagellum, allowing it to traverse viscous environments like the intestinal tract efficiently. Being a microaerophile, C. gracilis RM3268 requires reduced oxygen levels for optimal growth, typically around 5% oxygen concentration, and thrives at temperatures ranging from 37°C to 42°C. This temperature preference aligns with the body temperature of birds, its primary hosts, thereby enhancing its survival and colonization efficiency. Beyond its role as a potential pathogen, C. gracilis RM3268 is also of interest in the field of microbiology due to its unique metabolic pathways and the potential applications in food safety and antibiotic research. Its ability to thrive under specific environmental conditions makes it a subject of study for understanding microbial adaptations and their implications in health and disease.