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Phagocytosis of microbial L-forms
Infection and Immunity
|June 1, 1972
Summary
Phagocyte interactions with bacterial L-forms are poorly understood. A new serum-free method revealed bacteria are phagocytosed more readily than their L-forms, possibly due to L-forms' reduced chemotaxis.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Immunology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Limited data exists on phagocyte interactions with bacterial L-forms.
- Conventional methods for studying these interactions are challenging.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a novel serum-free technique for assessing L-form phagocytosis.
- To compare the phagocytosis rates of bacteria and their corresponding L-forms.
Main Methods:
- A serum-free surface phagocytosis assay was developed using cellulose ester filters.
- Fluorochrome staining and reflected fluorescence microscopy were employed for visualization.
- Electron microscopy confirmed intracellular localization of L-forms.
Main Results:
- Phagocytosis of both Streptococcus and Escherichia coli, and their L-forms, was demonstrated.
- Maximal phagocytosis for both bacterial types and their L-forms occurred at 30 minutes.
- Bacteria were consistently phagocytosed more effectively than their respective L-forms.
Conclusions:
- The developed technique allows for effective study of L-form phagocytosis.
- Bacterial L-forms exhibit lower phagocytosis rates compared to their parent bacteria.
- Reduced chemotactic activity may explain the decreased phagocytosis of L-forms.