Coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of Lactobacillus acidophilus, Gram-positive, rod prokaryote (bacterium). It ferments lactose into lactic a
Coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of Lactobacillus acidophilus, Gram-positive, rod prokaryote (bacterium). It ferments lactose into lactic acid (a homofermentative microorganism). As a result of producing lactic acid this bacterium thrives in more acidic environments than most related microorganisms (pH 4-5 or lower) and grows best at 45 degrees Celsius. L. acidophilus has a surface protein layer which allows them to adhere to mucous membrane cells. It occurs naturally in the human (and animal) intestine, mouth, and vagina. The acid environment it lives in inhibits the growth of many other bacterial forms and therefore protects the vagina from pathogenic infection. L. acidophilus also produces lactase, the enzyme that breaks down milk sugar (lactose) into simple sugars. People who are lactose intolerant do not produce this enzyme. L. acidophilus also produces bacteriocins against pathogenic food borne bacteria. Magnification: x3,000 when
Size: 2726px × 3206px
Photo credit: © DENNIS KUNKEL MICROSCOPY/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No
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