Neisseria gonorrhoeae strain gc-167

Neisseria gonorrhoeae strain gc-167 is a Gram-negative bacterium characterized by its cocci shape and arrangement in singles and pairs. It is an aerobic organism, requiring oxygen for growth, and is classified as mesophilic, with an optimal temperature of 35°C. This strain possesses two membranes and a single replicon, indicating its cellular structure and genetic organization. N. gonorrhoeae strain gc-167 is notable for its pathogenicity in humans, primarily causing infections such as gonorrhea, septicemia, male urethritis, and eye infections, including conjunctivitis. Additionally, it can lead to disseminated gonococcal infections, highlighting its potential to spread beyond the initial site of infection. The bacterium is free-living but primarily associated with hosts, specifically Homo sapiens and other mammals. This strain's inability to move, as it lacks flagella, suggests that its transmission relies on direct contact during sexual activity or from mother to child during childbirth, particularly in the case of eye infections. The implications of its pathogenicity are significant for public health, as N. gonorrhoeae is known for its increasing antibiotic resistance, making infections difficult to treat. The ecological insight provided by this strain underscores the importance of understanding its behavior within host-associated environments and the need for ongoing surveillance and research to address the challenges posed by its infections.