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Ultrastructure and gliding motility of Mycoplasma amphoriforme, a possible human respiratory pathogen

Jennifer M Hatchel1, Rebecca S Balish1, Matthew L Duley2

  • 1Department of Microbiology, Miami University, Oxford, OH 45056, USA.

Microbiology (Reading, England)
|June 29, 2006
PubMed

Insights

Mycoplasma amphoriforme possesses a unique internal structure within its attachment organelle, similar to Mycoplasma pneumoniae but with distinct dimensions. This organism also exhibits slower gliding motility compared to related species.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Cell Biology
  • Pathogenesis

Background:

  • Mycoplasma species possess complex virulence structures despite small genomes.
  • The attachment organelle, crucial for virulence, contains an electron-dense core.
  • Mycoplasma amphoriforme is a recently identified pathogen linked to chronic bronchitis.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the ultrastructure of Mycoplasma amphoriforme.
  • To characterize the gliding motility of Mycoplasma amphoriforme.
  • To compare the attachment organelle structures and motility of M. amphoriforme with related species.

Main Methods:

  • Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) for ultrastructural analysis.
  • Time-lapse microcinematography to observe gliding motility.
  • Triton X-100 detergent extraction to identify insoluble structures.

Main Results:

  • Mycoplasma amphoriforme exhibits a Triton X-100-insoluble structure resembling the electron-dense core of M. pneumoniae but with different dimensions.
  • The organism displays gliding motility, albeit at a slower rate than M. pneumoniae or M. gallisepticum.
  • Ultrastructural analysis revealed external similarities to Mycoplasma gallisepticum.

Conclusions:

  • Mycoplasma amphoriforme has a unique internal structure within its attachment organelle.
  • The distinct motility and structural characteristics of M. amphoriforme may influence its pathogenesis.
  • Further research is needed to elucidate the function of this structure and its role in virulence.

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