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A study on the characterization of Corynebacterium acnes
1Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tokyo, Hongo 7-3-1, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan.
The Journal of Dermatology
|October 1, 1977
Summary
This study classified 49 anaerobic gram-positive rod strains, including those from acne vulgaris, using biochemical, physiological, and morphological analyses. Gas chromatography confirmed these strains likely belong to the Corynebacterium acnes species.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Dermatology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Acne vulgaris is often associated with anaerobic gram-positive rods.
- Accurate classification of these bacteria is crucial for understanding their role in skin conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically classify 49 strains of anaerobic gram-positive rods isolated from acne lesions and normal skin.
- To determine if these strains could be classified as Corynebacterium acnes (C. acnes) using multiple analytical methods.
Main Methods:
- Biochemical and physiological characterization of bacterial strains.
- Morphological analysis including Gram staining and pleomorphism.
- Gas chromatographic analysis of selected strains.
- Growth studies at varying pH levels.
Main Results:
- Forty-nine strains were divided into six biochemical/physiological subgroups and two morphological types.
- The smaller morphological type (coccal rods) exhibited saccharolytic characteristics (Subgroup B).
- Gas chromatography revealed consistent chromatograms across subgroups, supporting a single species classification.
- Optimal growth occurred between pH 6.0-6.5; growth was poor above pH 8.0.
Conclusions:
- The diverse strains studied likely represent a single species, Corynebacterium acnes.
- Morphological and biochemical characteristics correlate, suggesting a unified classification.
- Further characterization supports C. acnes as a key bacterium in skin microflora and potentially acne vulgaris.