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Mycoplasma fermentans--HeLa cell interactions
D Taylor-Robinson1, P Sarathchandra, P M Furr
1Division of Sexually Transmitted Diseases, Clinical Research Centre, Harrow, Middlesex, United Kingdom.
Abstract:
A survey of previous evidence for the intracellular localization of mycoplasmas within nonphagocytic cells indicated that it was insufficient to conclude unequivocally that such localization occurred. Illustrations of the seemingly intracellular existence of Mycoplasma fermentans in the tissues of patients with AIDS and other patients rekindled interest in the topic of mycoplasmal entrance into epithelial cells. Accordingly, the "incognitus" and PG18 strains of M. fermentans were sought and demonstrated within HeLa cells by electron microscopy following treatment of the cell cultures with gold-labeled antiserum specific to the mycoplasma, together with ruthenium red staining. The phenomenon is not unique to this mycoplasma, being demonstrated also with Mycoplasma hominis. In hindsight, some of the earlier investigators who hinted at intracellular localization were probably correct in doing so.
Insights
Mycoplasmas, including Mycoplasma fermentans, can enter and exist within nonphagocytic epithelial cells. This study provides electron microscopy evidence confirming intracellular localization, validating earlier research.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Cell Biology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Previous evidence for intracellular mycoplasma localization in nonphagocytic cells was inconclusive.
- Renewed interest in mycoplasma cell entry was sparked by observations in patient tissues.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate and confirm the intracellular localization of Mycoplasma fermentans within nonphagocytic cells.
- To demonstrate the phenomenon using advanced microscopy techniques.
Main Methods:
- HeLa cells were cultured and treated with specific gold-labeled antiserum against Mycoplasma fermentans.
- Electron microscopy combined with ruthenium red staining was used to visualize mycoplasmas within cells.
- The study also examined Mycoplasma hominis for similar intracellular localization.
Main Results:
- Mycoplasma fermentans (strains "incognitus" and PG18) was definitively demonstrated within HeLa cells.
- Intracellular localization was also observed for Mycoplasma hominis.
- The findings support the hypothesis that mycoplasmas can indeed invade epithelial cells.
Conclusions:
- Mycoplasmas are capable of intracellular localization within nonphagocytic epithelial cells.
- This intracellular presence was confirmed using electron microscopy and specific labeling techniques.
- The study validates earlier, less conclusive findings on mycoplasma cell invasion.