Mikobakteeri

Mikobakteeri is a genus of bacteria belonging to the phylum Actinobacteria. These bacteria are characterized by their unique cell wall composition, which is rich in mycolic acids, a type of fatty acid. This waxy outer layer makes them resistant to Gram staining, a common laboratory technique used to classify bacteria. Instead, they are often identified using the Ziehl-Neelsen stain or Kinyoun stain, which stain these acid-fast bacilli.

The genus Mycobacterium includes many species, some of which are pathogenic and cause significant diseases in humans and animals. The most well-known species are Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the causative agent of tuberculosis, and Mycobacterium leprae, which causes leprosy. These diseases have historically been major global health challenges.

However, not all mycobacteria are harmful. Many species are found in the environment, such as in soil and water, and play roles in nutrient cycling. Some non-pathogenic mycobacteria are also used in research or have potential applications in biotechnology. The study of mycobacteria is crucial for understanding infectious diseases and developing effective treatments and prevention strategies. Diagnosis and treatment of mycobacterial infections can be challenging due to the slow growth rate of these bacteria and their inherent resistance to many common antibiotics.