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Contains both pathogenic and non-pathogenic organisms Do not produce endospores, but are resistant to drying (desiccation) Found routinely on the surface of the skin May cause infection if the skin or mucous membranes are broken or damaged Three major species:
1. 2. 3. Staphylococcus aureus Staphylococcus epidermidis Staphylococcus saprophyticus
Staphylococcus aureus is considered the most pathogenic species, causing abscesses, boils, carbuncles, acne, impetego, and less commonly, pneumonia, osteomyelitis, endocarditis, cystitis, pyelonephritis, and food poisoning. The three species can be distinguished from each other by various biochemical tests. In this lab we will perform some of these tests and observe the results.
Catalase Test
The Catalase test determines if the organism produces the enzyme Catalase, which breaks down hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) to water and oxygen (O2).
Catalase
2 H2O2
2 H2O + O2 (g)
Catalase allows organisms to break down harmful metabolites of aerobic respiration and may be seen in aerobic and facultatively anaerobic organisms. There are other enzymes produced by some organisms to handle other toxic endproducts of metabolism, such as superoxide dismutase. Not all organisms produce catalase.
Coagulase Test
Pathogenic organisms require mechanisms to help them overcome host defense systems. One mechanism involves coating the bacterial cells in a body substance, such as fibrin, to hide the bacterial cells from the immune system. This coating will not trigger an immune response by the host cells. The enzyme coagulase causes fibrin to be deposited on bacterial cells helping them to become invisible to the host immune system.
Antibiotic Susceptibility/Resistance
Interpretation of Results
Catalase
Bubbling indicates a positive test for the presence of the catalase enzyme.
Coagulase
Agglutination of the Test latex with no agglutination of the Control latex is considered a positive (+) test for the presence of this enzyme. All reactions occurring after 20 seconds should be ignored. Agglutination of the Test latex with no agglutination of the Control latex is considered a positive (+) test for the presence of this enzyme.
Novobiocin Susceptibility
A zone of growth inhibition 17 mm or less in diameter indicates resistance (R) to Novobiocin. If the zone is greater than 11 mm the organism is susceptible (S) to Novobiocin.