What is the structure of Neisseria meningitidis?

What is the structure of Neisseria meningitidis?

N. meningitidis is a gram-negative β proteobacterium and member of the bacterial family of Neisseriaceae. N. meningitidis is a fastidious bacterium, dying within hours on inanimate surfaces, and is either an encapsulated or unencapsulated, aerobic diplococcus with a “kidney” or “coffee-bean” shape (Fig.

Is Neisseria meningitidis Cocci?

The bacterium is referred to as a coccus because it is round, and more specifically a diplococcus because of its tendency to form pairs. About 10% of adults are carriers of the bacteria in their nasopharynx.

Where Neisseria meningitidis is found?

N. meningitidis bacteria are found in the nose and throat without causing disease.

What are the characteristics of Neisseria meningitidis?

CHARACTERISTICS: Neisseria meningitidis belongs to the family Neisseriaceae 2. It is a Gram-negative, non-spore forming, non-motile, encapsulated, and non acid-fast diplococci, which appears in kidney bean shape under the microscope 1 3.

Is Neisseria meningitidis intracellular or extracellular?

To cause meningitis the extracellular pathogen Neisseria meningitidis has to traverse the blood-cerebrospinal fluid (B-CSF) barrier. Postulating a transcellular passage, meningococci (MC) have been shown to adhere to and enter B-CSF barrier forming human brain microvascular endothelial cells (HBMEC).

What causes Neisseria meningitidis?

What causes meningococcal infections? The Neisseria meningitidis bacteria are spread through close contact with infected people. Droplets in the air from a sneeze or close conversation can be inhaled and may cause infection. In rare cases, the bacteria grow rapidly causing serious illness in both children and adults.

Is Neisseria meningitidis a virus?

Meningococcal disease is caused by bacteria called Neisseria meningitidis. It can lead to serious blood infections.

Does Neisseria meningitidis have Pili?

Like numerous bacterial pathogens, Neisseria meningitidis express type IV pili, long filamentous adhesive structures composed of pilins.

Can you get meningitis from kissing?

Is meningitis contagious? Close contact – not casual contact at work or school – can spread the bacteria and viruses that cause meningitis. This includes kissing, coughing, or sneezing. Sharing eating utensils, glasses, food, or towels can also spread these bacteria and viruses.