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Bacteriophage M: an incompatibility group M plasmid-specific phage
Journal of General Microbiology
|July 1, 1983
Abstract:
Phage M was specific for bacterial strains, of various genera, harbouring plasmids of the M incompatibility group. It formed turbid plaques which varied from pin point to more than 2 mm in diameter on all hosts where plaques were detected. The phage had an hexagonal outline with a diameter of 27 nm. It contained RNA but differed from other plasmid-dependent RNA phages in being sensitive to chloroform. It adsorbed along the length of shafts of M pili.
Insights
This study identifies Phage M, an RNA phage specific to bacteria with M incompatibility group plasmids. Unlike other similar phages, it is sensitive to chloroform and attaches to M pili.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Virology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Bacteriophages are viruses that infect bacteria, playing roles in microbial ecology and evolution.
- Plasmid-dependent phages offer insights into host-phage interactions and genetic exchange.
- The M incompatibility group plasmids are significant in bacterial conjugation and antibiotic resistance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize Phage M, a novel bacteriophage.
- To determine the host specificity and adsorption mechanism of Phage M.
- To investigate the unique properties of Phage M, particularly its sensitivity to chloroform.
Main Methods:
- Isolation and characterization of Phage M from bacterial hosts.
- Plaque assays to determine host range and plaque morphology.
- Electron microscopy to ascertain phage morphology.
- Biochemical analysis to determine phage nucleic acid type and sensitivity to chloroform.
- Adsorption assays to identify attachment sites on bacterial pili.
Main Results:
- Phage M exhibited specificity for bacterial strains harboring M incompatibility group plasmids.
- Plaque morphology varied, with sizes ranging from pinpoint to over 2 mm.
- The phage possessed an hexagonal outline, measuring 27 nm in diameter, and contained RNA.
- Phage M was uniquely sensitive to chloroform, distinguishing it from other plasmid-dependent RNA phages.
- Adsorption occurred along the length of M pili.
Conclusions:
- Phage M represents a distinct type of plasmid-dependent RNA phage.
- Its chloroform sensitivity and adsorption to M pili provide unique characteristics for further research.
- Phage M can serve as a valuable tool for studying M incompatibility group plasmids and bacterial conjugation.