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Cell surface structures of Actinomyces israelii
Australian Dental Journal
|April 1, 1997
Summary
Actinomyces israelii causes actinomycosis, often failing endodontic treatment. Electron microscopy revealed fimbriae and outer coats on the bacteria, suggesting these surface structures contribute to its pathogenicity.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Oral Biology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Actinomyces israelii is the primary cause of human actinomycosis, a persistent infection.
- Periapical actinomycosis due to A. israelii frequently leads to endodontic treatment failure.
- Bacterial cell surface structures are suspected contributors to Actinomyces pathogenicity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the ultrastructure of Actinomyces israelii.
- To identify bacterial surface structures potentially involved in pathogenicity.
Main Methods:
- Electron microscopy was employed to examine the ultrastructure of A. israelii.
- Negatively stained preparations and thin sectioning techniques were utilized.
Main Results:
- Negatively stained preparations showed hairlike fimbriae extending through a thick surface coat on some A. israelii.
- Thin sectioning revealed a Gram-positive cell wall enclosed by a fuzzy outer coat.
Conclusions:
- The observed fimbriae and outer coat structures on A. israelii may play a significant role in its pathogenicity.
- Understanding these ultrastructural features is crucial for addressing A. israelii infections, particularly in endodontics.