Acid Fast Bacteria (AFB) Stain Kit (Microorganism Stain)

Supplementary info

This supplementary information is collated from multiple sources and compiled automatically.

Activity summary

Acid fast bacteria (AFB) are a group of microorganisms recognized for their unique cell wall structure which resists decolorization by acids after staining with dyes like carbol fuchsin. The Mycobacterium genus including well-known pathogens such as Mycobacterium tuberculosis (T. bacilli) is a part of this group. These bacteria exhibit slow growth but can survive in harsh conditions due to a high lipid content in the cell wall comprising mycolic acids. This property enhances their ability to evade immune responses making them difficult to treat. The molecular mass of individual mycolic acids ranges from 800 to 1000 Da factoring into this resilience.

Biological function summary

The unique cell wall of acid fast bacteria plays a central role in their pathogenic capability. The thick waxy cell wall comprised of mycolic acids gives them durability in physical and chemical environments. This cell wall structure is not a singular entity but works with other components like arabinogalactan and peptidoglycan to form a complex and effective barrier. These traits make Mycobacterium species difficult to penetrate with common antimicrobial agents complicating treatment efforts.

Pathways

The restrictive cell wall of acid fast bacteria interacts with various biological processes essential for bacterial survival and virulence. One primary pathway involves the synthesis of mycolic acids which heavily relies on the FAS-II fatty acid synthase system for extension of fatty acid chains. This system is linked to other proteins like InhA which is a target for several antitubercular drugs. Another critical pathway is the electron transport chain where components like cytochrome bc1 complex are integral to intracellular energy production highlighting the complexity and adaptability of these bacteria.

Associated diseases and disorders

Acid fast bacteria significantly relate to tuberculosis (TB) and leprosy. Mycobacterium tuberculosis is the causative agent of TB a disease that affects the lungs and can spread to other organs. In TB proteins like ESAT-6 and CFP-10 secreted by the bacterium play roles in immunological evasion and pathogenesis. Leprosy caused by Mycobacterium leprae impacts the skin and peripheral nerves. Here the unique cell wall compounds of acid fast bacteria help them persist in host cells promoting chronic infection. These diseases exemplify the clinical challenges posed by the unique structural attributes of acid fast bacteria.