Neisserial: meaning, definitions and examples

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neisserial

 

[ naɪˈsɪəriə ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

bacterial taxonomy

Neisseria is a genus of bacteria known for its role in human diseases such as gonorrhea and meningitis. These bacteria are Gram-negative and often found in pairs resembling coffee beans. Neisseria species are primarily pathogenic, making them significant in the study of infectious diseases.

Synonyms

bacteria, microorganism, pathogen

Examples of usage

  • Neisseria gonorrhoeae can cause sexually transmitted infections.
  • The research focused on the virulence factors of Neisseria meningitidis.
  • Vaccination against Neisseria meningitidis has become widely recommended.
  • Infection rates of Neisseria in urban areas are rising.

Word origin

The term 'Neisseria' derives from the name of the German bacteriologist Albert Neisser who first described the genus in the late 19th century. Albert Neisser's work focused on the study of infectious diseases, specifically those caused by bacteria. The name reflects not only the contributions of Neisser to microbiology but also the characteristics of the bacteria he studied. The genus Neisseria was established in 1885, and it includes several key species, many of which are significant human pathogens. The naming convention used in taxonomy, where the genus is typically named after a person, underscores the importance of individual contributions to scientific knowledge. Over time, Neisseria has gained recognition not just in clinical settings but also in research, advancing our understanding of microbial world and its interactions with human health.