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Effect of external environmental factors on the morphology of Spiroplasma citri
Abstract:
Spiroplasma citri was examined by electron microscopy for morphological changes when maintained under a variety of conditions. PPLO serum fraction maintained spiral and helical morphology of S. citri at pH values of 8.0, 7.5, and 7.0, but only partially at pH 6.0 and 5.0. The absence of PPLO serum fraction resulted in round, deteriorated cells at all pH values tested. Bovine serum albumin (BSA), Phytone, soluble starch, potato starch, spermine, lipid-extracted PPLO serum fraction, and lipid-extracted BSA could substitute for PPLO serum fraction in maintaining spiral and helical morphology at pH 7.5. At pH 5.0, only BSA, lipid-extracted BSA, and lipid-extracted PPLO serum fraction were effective. Only BSA supported growth of S. citri for more than two transfers, whereas all other substitutes could not support growth longer than two transfers.
Insights
Spiroplasma citri maintains its spiral shape with PPLO serum fraction across various pH levels. Substitutes like BSA support morphology and growth, crucial for understanding this plant pathogen.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Plant Pathology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Spiroplasma citri is a helical-shaped bacterium affecting plant health.
- Maintaining the morphology of Spiroplasma citri in vitro is essential for studying its biology.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the morphological changes of Spiroplasma citri under different culture conditions.
- To identify suitable substitutes for PPLO serum fraction for maintaining Spiroplasma citri morphology and growth.
Main Methods:
- Electron microscopy was used to observe Spiroplasma citri morphology.
- Cultures were maintained under varying pH conditions and with different media supplements.
Main Results:
- PPLO serum fraction maintained spiral and helical morphology of Spiroplasma citri at pH 7.0-8.0, with partial maintenance at pH 5.0-6.0.
- In the absence of PPLO serum fraction, Spiroplasma citri cells became round and deteriorated.
- Bovine serum albumin (BSA) and lipid-extracted PPLO serum fraction were effective substitutes for maintaining morphology at pH 5.0.
- Only BSA supported sustained growth of Spiroplasma citri beyond two transfers.
Conclusions:
- PPLO serum fraction is critical for maintaining Spiroplasma citri morphology, particularly at neutral to alkaline pH.
- Certain supplements, notably BSA, can substitute for PPLO serum fraction, supporting both morphology and prolonged growth, which is vital for future research on Spiroplasma citri.