Related Experiment Videos
Protein and antigen heterogeneity among strains of Mycoplasma fermentans
C T Städtlander1, C Zuhua, H L Watson
1Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham 35294.
Abstract:
The proteins and antigens of three strains of Mycoplasma fermentans were compared with those of a mycoplasma, designated "Mycoplasma incognitus," recently identified in tissues of AIDS patients. Previous studies have shown that "M. incognitus" is most likely not a new species but rather a strain of M. fermentans. In the present study, one- and two-dimensional electrophoretic analysis demonstrated the expected similarity between these mycoplasmas, but it also demonstrated several distinct protein differences. Nine proteins were identified as strain variable by two-dimensional gel electrophoresis. Also, immunoblot analysis using rabbit antiserum against the type strain of M. fermentans (strain PG 18) documented the occurrence of size heterogeneity in at least one and possibly two other antigens.
Insights
Mycoplasma fermentans strains, including "Mycoplasma incognitus" from AIDS patients, show distinct protein variations. Electrophoresis revealed nine variable proteins and antigen size differences, confirming strain variability.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Immunology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Mycoplasma fermentans is a known pathogen.
- "Mycoplasma incognitus" has been identified in AIDS patients.
- Previous research suggests "M. incognitus" may be a strain of M. fermentans.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the protein and antigen profiles of M. fermentans strains.
- To investigate the relationship between M. fermentans and "M. incognitus".
Main Methods:
- One- and two-dimensional gel electrophoresis.
- Immunoblot analysis using rabbit antiserum.
Main Results:
- Electrophoresis confirmed similarities but also revealed distinct protein differences.
- Nine proteins were identified as strain-variable using two-dimensional gel electrophoresis.
- Immunoblot analysis showed size heterogeneity in at least one or two other antigens.
Conclusions:
- "Mycoplasma incognitus" exhibits strain-specific protein variations within the Mycoplasma fermentans species.
- These findings support the classification of "M. incognitus" as a strain of M. fermentans, highlighting intra-species diversity.