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Bacteriophages from Bombyx mori
H W Ackermann1, P Auclair, S Basavarajappa
1Félix d'Hérelle Reference Center for Bacterial Viruses, Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Laval University, Quebec, Sainte-Foy, Canada.
Archives of Virology
|January 1, 1994
Summary
Researchers discovered two large bacteriophages in silkworm larvae. One phage targets Pseudomonas paucimobilis, while the other is among the largest known viruses.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Virology
- Entomology
Background:
- Silkworm larvae can harbor various microorganisms, including viruses.
- Bacteriophages, viruses that infect bacteria, are diverse and play roles in microbial ecosystems.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify and characterize bacteriophages present in silkworm larvae preparations.
- To investigate the host range and potential characteristics of newly discovered phages.
Main Methods:
- Isolation and purification of bacteriophages from silkworm larvae samples.
- Electron microscopy for visualizing phage morphology.
- Bacterial host range assays to determine phage activity.
Main Results:
- Two distinct, large bacteriophages belonging to the Myoviridae family were identified.
- One phage demonstrated infectivity against Pseudomonas paucimobilis.
- The second phage, uncultivated, was noted for its exceptionally large size, classifying it among the largest known viruses.
Conclusions:
- Silkworm larvae can serve as a source for novel and large bacteriophages.
- The identified Myoviridae phages represent significant discoveries in virology.
- Further research is warranted to fully characterize the uncultivated, large virus.