Viable but nonculturable (VBNC) bacteria refers to bacteria that are in a state of very low metabolic activity and do not divide, but are alive and have the ability to become culturable once resuscitated.[1]
Bacteria in a VBNC state cannot grow on standard growth media, though flow cytometry can measure the viability of the bacteria.[1] Bacteria can enter the VBNC state as a response to stress, due to adverse nutrient, temperature, osmotic, oxygen, and light conditions.[1] The cells that are in the VBNC state are morphologically smaller, and demonstrate reduced nutrient transport, rate of respiration, and synthesis of macromolecules.[1] Sometimes, VBNC bacteria can remain in that state for over a year.[1] It has been shown that numerous pathogens and non-pathogens can enter the VBNC state, and therefore it has significant implications in pathogenesis, bioremediation, and other branches of microbiology.[1]
The following is a list of pathogenic bacteria that can enter a VBNC state:[2]