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[Plasmid profile of strains of various Legionella species]
Abstract:
The plasmid profile of Legionella strains of different origin has been studied. 15 out of 32 Legionella cultures belonging to different strains have been found to contain plasmid DNA in an amount of 1 or 2 plasmids, with the exception of L. feelei having 6 plasmids. Only 1 out of 3 Legionella strains isolated in the USSR has been found to possess a plasmid with a molecular weight of about 80 MD. Plasmids with this molecular weight have been found in 13 Legionella strains under study, such plasmids in L. pneumophila strains of serogroup 1 (strains Flint 1 and Albuquerque 1) and serogroup 9 (strain No. 35282) having an exact molecular weight of 82.4 +/- 2.4 MD and being similar in molecular structure, which has been established as the result of their treatment with restrictases Pst 1 and Hind III.
Insights
Researchers analyzed plasmid DNA in Legionella bacteria, finding that most strains contained 1-2 plasmids. A specific plasmid size (around 80 MD) was common in several Legionella pneumophila strains.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Legionella bacteria are significant human pathogens.
- Understanding Legionella plasmid profiles is crucial for epidemiological studies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the plasmid DNA content of various Legionella strains.
- To characterize plasmids found in Legionella, focusing on molecular weight and structure.
Main Methods:
- Culturing and isolation of Legionella strains.
- Plasmid DNA extraction and analysis.
- Restriction enzyme digestion (Pst I and Hind III) for structural comparison.
Main Results:
- 15 out of 32 Legionella cultures contained plasmid DNA (1-2 plasmids per strain, except L. feelei with 6).
- A plasmid of approximately 80 MD was identified in 13 strains.
- L. pneumophila serogroup 1 and 9 strains exhibited similar plasmid structures (82.4 +/- 2.4 MD) after restriction enzyme treatment.
Conclusions:
- Plasmid profiles vary among Legionella strains.
- A common plasmid type exists in certain Legionella pneumophila serogroups.
- Restriction enzyme analysis reveals conserved structural features in these plasmids.