Corynebacterium (genus)

Corynebacterium is a large genus of Gram-positive, often club-shaped or irregularly shaped (coryneform) bacteria, widely distributed in animal and human microbiota as harmless commensals, although some species are notable pathogens (e.g., Corynebacterium diphtheriae, which causes diphtheria). Diagnostic identification relies on morphological, biochemical, and increasingly genetic (16S rRNA, rpoB) characterization. Modern antibiotic therapy has reduced the impact of Corynebacterium diseases, but resistance and misidentification remain clinical challenges. Some species are important in biotechnology, while pathogenic strains may require targeted therapy and pose public health challenges in specific settings.

Other names

Coryneform bacteriaDiphtheroidsClub-shaped bacteria