Which of the following is NOT a member of the red complex?

Prepare for the Microbiology and Immunology 6400 Oral Intermicrobial Interactions Test. Study with engaging materials, flashcards, and multiple-choice questions. Each question offers hints and detailed explanations. Ace your exam today!

Multiple Choice

Which of the following is NOT a member of the red complex?

Explanation:
Red complex bacteria are the main periodontal pathogens most strongly linked to destructive periodontitis. Among the listed organisms, three are classic red complex members: Porphyromonas gingivalis, Tannerella forsythia, and Treponema denticola. Streptococcus sanguinis, however, is a Gram-positive facultative anaerobe that serves as an early colonizer in dental biofilm and is commonly associated with healthful, non-destructive communities. It can even help inhibit pathogenic species, rather than drive the inflammation and tissue destruction seen with the red complex. Therefore, the organism not part of the red complex is Streptococcus sanguinis.

Red complex bacteria are the main periodontal pathogens most strongly linked to destructive periodontitis. Among the listed organisms, three are classic red complex members: Porphyromonas gingivalis, Tannerella forsythia, and Treponema denticola. Streptococcus sanguinis, however, is a Gram-positive facultative anaerobe that serves as an early colonizer in dental biofilm and is commonly associated with healthful, non-destructive communities. It can even help inhibit pathogenic species, rather than drive the inflammation and tissue destruction seen with the red complex. Therefore, the organism not part of the red complex is Streptococcus sanguinis.

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