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Updated: Jul 5, 2026
Antigen-Capture Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay for Specific Detection of Mycoplasma pneumoniae
Published on: February 24, 2023
Detection of Mycoplasma pulmonis in laboratory rats and technicians
J B Ferreira1, M Yamaguti, L M Marques
1Departamento de Microbiologia, Laboratório de Micoplasmas, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas-USP, Av. Prof. Lineu Prestes, São Paulo, Brasil.
Abstract:
Five species of mycoplasma are associated with several rat diseases. Mycoplasma pulmonis is the most important and most studied, possibly causing disease in rats and undermining the validity of laboratory experiments. M. pulmonis was isolated in 144/240 laboratory rats and identified by PCR in 155/240. This species was also detected in 12 human individuals (technicians of a laboratory animal house hold) in contact with these rats. The results were confirmed by sequencing of DNA products. Mycoplasma species are host specific; however, M. pulmonis was identified in humans, suggesting a case of unspecific colonization. Statistical analysis shows a greater risk for M. pulmonis colonizing individuals who are exposed to infected rats in animal facilities than individuals who do not. The detection of M. pulmonis in humans indicates a new status for this mollicute mycoplasmas in animal-holding facilities.
Insights
Mycoplasma pulmonis, a common rat pathogen, was detected in human lab workers. This finding highlights potential zoonotic transmission risks in animal facilities.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Microbiology
- Zoonotic Diseases
- Laboratory Animal Science
Background:
- Mycoplasma pulmonis is a significant pathogen in laboratory rats, potentially impacting research validity.
- Understanding the prevalence and host specificity of M. pulmonis is crucial for animal health and human safety.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence of Mycoplasma pulmonis in laboratory rats and assess its potential transmission to humans.
- To confirm the identification of M. pulmonis using molecular methods and evaluate associated risks.
Main Methods:
- Isolation and Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) detection of M. pulmonis in laboratory rats.
- DNA sequencing for confirmation of M. pulmonis identification.
- Epidemiological survey of human technicians in contact with infected rats.
Main Results:
- M. pulmonis was isolated from 144/240 and detected by PCR in 155/240 laboratory rats.
- The bacterium was also identified in 12/240 human technicians working in the animal facility.
- Statistical analysis indicated a higher risk of M. pulmonis colonization in individuals with occupational exposure to infected rats.
Conclusions:
- Mycoplasma pulmonis, typically host-specific to rats, was found to colonize humans, suggesting a potential zoonotic risk.
- The presence of M. pulmonis in human handlers necessitates enhanced surveillance and biosecurity measures in animal facilities.
- This study establishes a new context for M. pulmonis as a potential zoonotic agent in laboratory settings.
