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Pathogenic mycoplasmas: cultivation and vertebrate pathogenicity of a new spiroplasma
Abstract:
A spiroplasma recovered from allantoic fluids of chick embryos infected with the tick-derived suckling mouse cataract agent was grown in continuous passage on a new artificial culture medium. The cultured organisms induced typical ocular and other disease symptoms in susceptible animals, and were reisolated from involved host tissues. Although spiroplasmas have been previously recognized as plant and insect pathogens, this is the first spiroplasma shown to multiply at 37 degrees C and to be pathogenic for vertebrates.
Insights
This study demonstrates the first spiroplasma capable of multiplying at 37°C and causing disease in vertebrates. Spiroplasma multiplication and pathogenicity in a mammalian model were confirmed.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Veterinary Pathology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Spiroplasmas are known plant and insect pathogens.
- Previous research has not identified spiroplasmas multiplying at 37°C or causing vertebrate disease.
Purpose of the Study:
- To culture and characterize a novel spiroplasma from chick embryos.
- To determine the pathogenicity of this spiroplasma in susceptible animals.
- To establish a spiroplasma model for vertebrate infection.
Main Methods:
- Isolation and continuous culture of spiroplasma on a new artificial medium.
- Inoculation of susceptible animals with cultured spiroplasma.
- Reisolation of spiroplasma from infected host tissues.
Main Results:
- Successful continuous culture of spiroplasma achieved.
- Cultured spiroplasma induced typical ocular and other disease symptoms in animals.
- Spiroplasma was reisolated from infected host tissues, confirming infection.
Conclusions:
- This is the first spiroplasma demonstrated to multiply at 37°C.
- This spiroplasma is pathogenic for vertebrates, expanding the known host range for Spiroplasma.
- The findings establish a new vertebrate model for studying spiroplasma infections.