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Mycoplasmas: sophisticated, reemerging, and burdened by their notoriety
1Department of Microbiology, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio 78284-7758, USA. baseman@uthscsa.edu
Abstract:
Mycoplasmas are most unusual self-replicating bacteria, possessing very small genomes, lacking cell wall components, requiring cholesterol for membrane function and growth, using UGA codon for tryptophan, passing through "bacterial-retaining" filters, and displaying genetic economy that requires a strict dependence on the host for nutrients and refuge. In addition, many of the mycoplasmas pathogenic for humans and animals possess extraordinary specialized tip organelles that mediate their intimate interaction with eucaryotic cells. This host-adapted survival is achieved through surface parasitism of target cells, acquisition of essential biosynthetic precursors, and in some cases, subsequent entry and survival intracellularly. Misconceptions concerning the role of mycoplasmas in disease pathogenesis can be directly attributed to their biological subtleties and to fundamental deficits in understanding their virulence capabilities. In this review, we highlight the biology and pathogenesis of these procaryotes and provide new evidence that may lead to increased appreciation of their role as human pathogens.
Insights
Mycoplasmas are unique bacteria lacking cell walls and relying on hosts. Understanding their biology and virulence is key to recognizing their role as human pathogens.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Pathogenesis
- Bacteriology
Background:
- Mycoplasmas are unusual self-replicating bacteria with minimal genomes.
- They lack cell walls and require cholesterol for growth.
- Unique genetic features include UGA codon usage for tryptophan.
Observation:
- Many pathogenic mycoplasmas have specialized organelles for host cell interaction.
- They survive via surface parasitism, nutrient acquisition, and intracellular invasion.
- Biological subtleties contribute to misconceptions about their disease role.
Findings:
- This review details mycoplasma biology and pathogenesis.
- It presents evidence for their significance as human pathogens.
- Key characteristics include filterability and host dependence.
Implications:
- Enhanced understanding of mycoplasma virulence is needed.
- Recognizing their pathogenic potential is crucial for human health.
- Further research can clarify their role in disease etiology.