Pseudomonas aeruginosa

Definition

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a Gram-negative, opportunistic pathogen that can cause serious infections in humans. It is known for its resistance to antibiotics and ability to thrive in various environments.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Pseudomonas aeruginosa produces a blue-green pigment called pyocyanin which contributes to its pathogenicity.
2. It commonly causes infections in the respiratory tract, urinary tract, burns, and wounds.
3. This bacterium exhibits high intrinsic resistance to many antibiotics due to efflux pumps and low outer membrane permeability.
4. Pseudomonas aeruginosa can form biofilms, making it more resistant to antimicrobial treatments.
5. It is an aerobic organism but can grow anaerobically by using nitrate as an alternative electron acceptor during respiration.

Review Questions

• What type of pigment does Pseudomonas aeruginosa produce and what is its role?
• Why is Pseudomonas aeruginosa often resistant to multiple antibiotics?
• In which types of infections is Pseudomonas aeruginosa commonly involved?

Related terms

Biofilm:

A structured community of microbial cells enclosed in a self-produced polymeric matrix adherent to an inert or living surface.

Efflux Pump: A protein that bacteria use to expel toxic substances and antibiotics out of their cells.

Pyocyanin: A blue-green pigment produced by Pseudomonas aeruginosa that has antimicrobial properties and contributes to tissue damage during infection.