Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans (A. actinomycetemcomitans)

Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans is a small, Gram-negative, facultatively anaerobic, non-motile rod-shaped bacterium that is an opportunistic oral pathogen, predominantly linked to aggressive forms of periodontitis, particularly in adolescents and young adults[1][5][7]. It is a member of the Pasteurellaceae family and is characterized by its capacity to form resilient biofilms, produce several potent virulence factors (including leukotoxin and cytolethal distending toxin), and modulate both local and systemic host immune responses[3][5][7]. In addition to localized oral infections, it can cause serious systemic infections (such as endocarditis) and has been implicated in the pathogenesis of cancer and autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis[2][5]. Although not a molecular “target” in the sense of a protein receptor, it is the objective of antimicrobial pharmacotherapy, generally requiring combined drug and mechanical therapy for effective clinical management[2].

Other names

Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitansHaemophilus actinomycetemcomitansA.a

Inhibition of bacterial cell wall synthesis (e.g., β-lactams, cephalosporins, carbapenems); Inhibition of protein synthesis (e.g., tetracyclines, clindamycin); Inhibition of DNA synthesis (e.g., fluoroquinolones, trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole); Disruption of anaerobic metabolism (e.g., metronidazole)