Novel cellular organization in a gliding mycoplasma, Mycoplasma insons

J Bacteriol. 2009 Aug;191(16):5312-4. doi: 10.1128/JB.00474-09. Epub 2009 Jun 12.

Abstract

Mycoplasmas that are known to exhibit gliding motility possess a differentiated tip structure. This polar organelle mediates cytadherence and gliding motor activity and contains a cytoskeleton-like component that provides structural support. Here, we describe gliding motility and a unique cytoskeleton in Mycoplasma insons, which lacks any obviously differentiated tip structure.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Bacterial Adhesion / physiology
  • Cytoskeleton / metabolism
  • Cytoskeleton / ultrastructure
  • Microscopy, Electron, Scanning
  • Microscopy, Phase-Contrast
  • Mycoplasma / cytology*
  • Mycoplasma / physiology*
  • Mycoplasma / ultrastructure