mikroaerofilních

mikroaerofilních refers to microorganisms that require a low concentration of oxygen for growth. Unlike aerobic organisms that thrive in the presence of atmospheric oxygen, or anaerobic organisms that are inhibited by it, microaerophiles have specific oxygen requirements that fall between these extremes. Typically, the optimal oxygen concentration for microaerophiles is between 2% and 10%, significantly lower than the approximately 20% found in the Earth's atmosphere.

These organisms often possess specialized metabolic pathways that utilize oxygen but are sensitive to higher concentrations, which can lead to the production of toxic reactive oxygen species. Consequently, they are frequently found in environments where oxygen levels are naturally reduced, such as in soil, sediments, aquatic environments, and within the tissues of animals. Examples of microaerophilic bacteria include Helicobacter pylori, a well-known pathogen associated with stomach ulcers, and Campylobacter jejuni, a common cause of foodborne illness.

Culturing microaerophiles in a laboratory setting requires specific conditions to mimic their natural habitat. This often involves using gas-generating systems or specialized incubators that control the oxygen concentration. The precise oxygen tension required can vary between different microaerophilic species, making their isolation and study a nuanced process. Their unique oxygen dependency plays a crucial role in their ecological niches and their interactions with other organisms.