Association of fibril structure formation with cell surface properties of Yersinia enterocolitica

Electron microscopic examination of virulence plasmid-bearing cells of Yersinia enterocolitica revealed the formation of a fibril structure when grown at 37 degrees C but not at 22 degrees C. Plasmidless cells did not exhibit any surface matrix. The formation of this surface component was associated with increased cell surface charge and hydrophobicity, formation of long chains of cells, and autoagglutination. This structure is distinct from the rigid appendages (fimbriae) which are elaborated by certain Yersinia strains.