Characteristics of Histoplasma capsulatum and Mycobacterium avium complex
Histoplasma capsulatum:
Histoplasma capsulatum is a small eukaryotic microbe with a rigid polysaccharide cell wall composed of glucose, mannose, and galactose. It has different chem-types that produce strains with varying glycans and structures. The yeast and mycelia phases of HC have different chitin fibril arrangements, contributing to their biological roles. HC is a heterotroph that thrives in nitrogen-rich soils, feeding on decaying organic matter. It can exist as a unicellular or multicellular vegetative body and prefers moist and acidic environments.
Mycobacterium avium complex:
Mycobacterium avium complex is made up of two species of mycobacteria - Mycobacterium avium and Mycobacteria intracellular. They are known to cause pulmonary infections worldwide and are commonly grouped together as they infect humans. Both species are non-motile and rod-shaped, with a size ranging from approximately 1-10 micrometers in length. The complex has a complex cell wall structure composed of hydrocarbon chains, arabinogalactan polysaccharide, and mycolic acid layer.
How do the different chem-types of Histoplasma capsulatum affect its biological roles? The different chem-types of Histoplasma capsulatum produce varied strains with different structures, leading to changes in its biological roles. For example, certain strains may exhibit different behaviors or responses in different environments based on their chem-type composition.