VBNCtillståndet

VBNCtillståndet, an abbreviation for "Viability, But Non-Culturable" state, describes a physiological condition in bacteria and other microorganisms where they are alive but cannot be detected by standard laboratory culturing methods. This means that while these cells are metabolically active and possess intact cellular structures, they are unable to grow and divide on nutrient-rich media under typical incubation conditions. The VBNC state is a survival strategy employed by microorganisms in response to environmental stress, such as nutrient deprivation, temperature extremes, oxidative stress, or exposure to antimicrobial agents.

Transitioning into the VBNC state allows microbes to persist in environments that would otherwise be lethal. Upon the removal of the stressor or the return of favorable conditions, some VBNC cells can regain their culturability and resume active growth. However, the recovery process can be slow and is not always guaranteed. The widespread occurrence of VBNC bacteria in various environments, including soil, water, and even food, has significant implications for public health, particularly in food safety and water treatment. Detecting and quantifying VBNC populations is challenging, often requiring alternative methods like flow cytometry, molecular techniques, or specific resuscitation protocols. Understanding the mechanisms underlying the VBNC state is crucial for developing more effective strategies for microbial control and for harnessing the potential of these resilient organisms.