Query: NC_014614:2359046 Clostridium sticklandii, complete genome
Lineage: Clostridium sticklandii; Clostridium; unclassified Peptostreptococcaceae; Clostridiales; Firmicutes; Bacteria
General Information: This Clostridium (HF strain, ATCC 12662) was initially found associated with Methanococcus vannieli in formate-enriched cultures. After its isolation in pure culture, it was shown that this organism is capable of fermenting amino acids. Biochemical studies have shown that C. sticklandii obtains energy for growth from oxidation-reduction reactions between specific amino acid pairs. Clostridium sticklandii is a Gram-positive bacterium with low (G +C) content that is capable of fermenting amino acids.
Subject: NC_015214:48999 Lactobacillus acidophilus 30SC chromosome, complete genome
Lineage: Lactobacillus acidophilus; Lactobacillus; Lactobacillaceae; Lactobacillales; Firmicutes; Bacteria
General Information: They are commonly found in the oral, vaginal, and intestinal regions of many animals. They are important industrial microbes that contribute to the production of cheese, yogurt, and other products such as fermented milks, all stemming from the production of lactic acid, which inhibits the growth of other organisms as well as lowering the pH of the food product. Industrial production requires the use of starter cultures, which are carefully cultivated, created, and maintained, which produce specific end products during fermentation that impart flavor to the final product, as well as contributing important metabolic reactions, such as the breakdown of milk proteins during cheese production. The end product of fermentation, lactic acid, is also being used as a starter molecule for complex organic molecule syntheses. This organism has been studied for its ability to help the human gut maintain its natural microbial community. Strains of this organism are also used in the production of yogurt, cheese and other fermented foods.