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Preliminary characterization of a pleomorphic gram-negative rod associated with avian respiratory disease
B R Charlton1, S E Channing-Santiago, A A Bickford
1California Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory System, Turlock.
Abstract:
An unidentified, pleomorphic, gram-negative rod (PGNR) bacterium has been isolated from domestic fowl with respiratory disease. The PGNR was isolated in 5% of turkey accessions and 3% of chicken accessions, primarily from the respiratory tract. Preliminary characterization of this organism included reviewing accession records, conducting cultural and biochemical tests, and analyzing cellular fatty acids. The PGNR was also compared with other bacteria capable of inhabiting the avian respiratory system. Biochemical and cellular fatty acid analysis failed to identify the organism, however all 14 isolates were similar.
Insights
An unidentified bacterium was found in domestic fowl with respiratory issues. Further analysis is needed to identify this pleomorphic, gram-negative rod (PGNR) affecting chickens and turkeys.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Microbiology
- Avian Pathology
- Bacteriology
Background:
- Respiratory disease is a significant concern in domestic fowl.
- An unidentified bacterium has been isolated from affected chickens and turkeys.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize and identify an unknown pleomorphic, gram-negative rod (PGNR) isolated from avian respiratory tracts.
- To compare the PGNR with known avian respiratory pathogens.
Main Methods:
- Isolation of bacteria from respiratory tracts of chickens and turkeys.
- Cultural and biochemical testing of isolates.
- Cellular fatty acid analysis.
- Comparison with known avian respiratory bacteria.
Main Results:
- A pleomorphic, gram-negative rod (PGNR) was isolated from 5% of turkey and 3% of chicken respiratory cases.
- Biochemical and cellular fatty acid analyses did not identify the organism.
- All 14 isolates exhibited similar characteristics.
Conclusions:
- An unknown PGNR is associated with respiratory disease in domestic fowl.
- Further investigation is required to definitively identify this novel avian pathogen.