Clostridium perfringens strain NCTC10578

Clostridium perfringens strain NCTC10578 is a Gram-positive, anaerobic, mesophilic rod-shaped bacterium that serves as a chemoorganotroph, deriving its energy from organic compounds. This strain is characterized by its mobility, attributed to the presence of flagella, and it typically exists in pairs, singles, or chains. The habitat of C. perfringens NCTC10578 is primarily host-associated, with a wide range of hosts including Homo sapiens, Gallus gallus, Bos, Sus scrofa, and various other mammals and birds. This bacterium is known for its pathogenic potential, causing numerous health issues in both humans and animals. In humans, it is associated with serious conditions such as food poisoning, enteritis, and sepsis, while in animals, it can lead to diseases like necrotic enteritis and gas gangrene. C. perfringens NCTC10578 possesses a single replicon and one membrane, which is typical for many clostridial species. Its optimal growth temperature is 37°C, aligning with the body temperature of its primary hosts, which aids its success as a pathogen. The ecological insight from the data indicates that C. perfringens NCTC10578 plays a crucial role in the gastrointestinal microbiota of its hosts. However, under certain conditions, it can become pathogenic, leading to significant health concerns. The duality of its existence as a free-living bacterium and as a potential pathogen underscores the importance of understanding its behavior in both ecological and clinical contexts.