The septal ontogeny, germination and electron microscopy of Microsporum gypseum macroaleurioconidia

Mycopathologia
|June 1, 1987
PubMed

Insights

This study examines Microsporum gypseum macroaleurioconidia development. Findings reveal septal formation is stage-dependent, and the cell wall has dense encrustations impacting fixation.

Area of Science:

  • Mycology
  • Dermatophytosis Research
  • Microbiology

Background:

  • Microsporum gypseum is a common cause of dermatophytosis in humans and animals.
  • Macroaleurioconidia are key structures for fungal reproduction and infection.
  • Understanding their development is crucial for antifungal strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the septal ontogeny and germination of M. gypseum macroaleurioconidia.
  • To perform electron microscopy analysis of macroaleurioconidia.
  • To elucidate the structural characteristics influencing fixation.

Main Methods:

  • Culturing M. gypseum strains from clinical cases.
  • Observing macroaleurioconidia septation and germination.
  • Utilizing electron microscopy with Tween 80 and negative pressure for fixation.

Main Results:

  • Septal formation in macroaleurioconidia is dependent on developmental stage.
  • The order of septum formation is relatively consistent.
  • Electron microscopy revealed an electron-dense encrustation on the macroaleurioconidial surface, hindering fixative penetration.

Conclusions:

  • Septal ontogeny in M. gypseum macroaleurioconidia follows a predictable pattern.
  • The macroaleurioconidial cell wall's structure presents challenges for electron microscopy fixation.
  • Further research may explore methods to overcome these fixation barriers.

Related Concept Videos

Seed Structure and Early Development of the Sporophyte02:33

Seed Structure and Early Development of the Sporophyte

Seed structures are composed of a protective seed coat surrounding a plant embryo, and a food store for the developing embryo. The embryo contains the precursor tissues for leaves, stem, and roots. The endosperm and cotyledons—seed leaves—act as the food reserves for the growing embryo.
Fungal Group Zygomycota01:29

Fungal Group Zygomycota

Zygomycota, previously classified as a distinct fungal group, are primarily terrestrial, saprophytic molds that play a crucial role as decomposers. Recent phylogenetic studies have revealed that these fungi are now divided into two major clades — Mucoromycota, which includes many symbiotic species, and Zoopagomycota, which primarily consists of parasitic and pathogenic fungi. These groups exhibit distinct ecological roles and reproductive strategies while sharing key structural and...
Fungal Phylum Microsporidia01:28

Fungal Phylum Microsporidia

Microsporidia are a group of obligate intracellular fungi that were initially classified as protists but were later reclassified based on phylogenetic, molecular, and structural evidence linking them to the Chytridiomycota. These unicellular, non-motile organisms are highly specialized parasites that infect a wide range of animal hosts, including humans. They have evolved extensive genomic and metabolic reductions, making them highly dependent on their hosts for survival.Morphology and Genomic...
Fungal Phylum Ascomycota01:28

Fungal Phylum Ascomycota

Phylum Ascomycota, a major division within the subkingdom Dikarya, comprises a diverse range of fungal species, including both unicellular yeasts and filamentous molds such as Aspergillus and Penicillium. These fungi thrive in a variety of habitats, from aquatic ecosystems to terrestrial environments, playing crucial ecological and economic roles.Morphology and ReproductionThe defining characteristic of Ascomycetes, commonly referred to as sac fungi, is the ascus—a sac-like structure that...