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Phospholipids and fatty acids of Neisseria gonorrhoeae
Abstract:
The phospholipids and fatty acids of two strains of Neisseria gonorrhoeae of different penicillin susceptibilities were examined. The phospholipids, which comprise about 8% of the dry weight of the cells, consisted of phosphatidylethanolamine (70%) and phosphatidylglycerol (20%); small amounts of phosphatidylcholine and traces of cardiolipin were also present. Growing and stationary-phase cells were similar in content and composition of phospholipids except for phosphatidylcholine, which increased two- to fivefold in the stationary-phase cells. The fatty acids of the phospholipids were characterized by two major acids, palmitic and a C16:1, with myristic and a C18:1 acid present in smaller amounts. The fatty acids present in purified phospholipid fractions varied considerably in relative proportions from fraction to fraction. No significant difference in the composition of phospholipids from the two strains was evident. Large amounts of beta-hydroxy lauric acid were detected only after saponification of the organisms. Differences in the lipid composition between the gonococcus and other gram-negative bacteria are discussed.
Insights
Neisseria gonorrhoeae phospholipids and fatty acids were analyzed. No significant lipid differences were found between penicillin-susceptible and resistant strains, though phosphatidylcholine increased in stationary phase.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Lipid Biochemistry
Background:
- Neisseria gonorrhoeae is a significant human pathogen.
- Understanding its lipid composition is crucial for antimicrobial development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the phospholipids and fatty acids of Neisseria gonorrhoeae.
- To compare lipid profiles between strains with differing penicillin susceptibilities.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of cellular phospholipids and fatty acids.
- Comparison of lipid composition in growing vs. stationary phase cells.
- Investigation of lipid differences between two Neisseria gonorrhoeae strains.
Main Results:
- Phospholipids (phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylglycerol) constituted 8% of cell dry weight.
- Phosphatidylcholine increased 2-5 fold in stationary phase cells.
- No significant differences in phospholipid or fatty acid composition were observed between the two strains.
Conclusions:
- Penicillin susceptibility in Neisseria gonorrhoeae does not correlate with major differences in phospholipid or fatty acid composition.
- Cellular lipid composition varies with growth phase, particularly phosphatidylcholine levels.