Mycoplasma capricolum
A Microbial Biorealm page on the genus Mycoplasma capricolum
Classification
Higher order taxa
Cellular organisms; Bacteria; Firmicutes; Mollicutes; Mycoplasmatales; Mycoplasmataceae; Mycoplasma
Species
Mycoplasma capricolum
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NCBI: Taxonomy |
Description and significance
Mycoplasma capricolum belongs to the genus Mycoplasma, which is a genus of bacteria that does not have cell wall neither murein. This Gram-negative, spherical organism is distinguished from other bacteria by its small size (a characteristic of the genus Mycoplasma) and requirement of cholesterol for growth. Though hard to isolate, this microorganism still can be obtained from lungs and pleural fluid of affected animals in necropsy. M. capricolum only lives in the host system.
Genome structure
The size the circular genome of Mycoplasma capricolum is 1155.5 kb, and has 25% of GC content. Describe the size and content of the genome. How many chromosomes? Circular or linear? Other interesting features? What is known about its sequence? Does it have any plasmids? Are they important to the organism's lifestyle?
Cell structure and metabolism
M. capricolum has no cell wall but only lipid bilayer membrane, up to 2/3 of unesterified cholesterol is in the outer membrane. Describe any interesting features and/or cell structures; how it gains energy; what important molecules it produces.
Ecology
The natural transmission pathway of M. capricolum is through inhalation of infectious droplets, though infection could be achieved through injecting cell culture experimentally. When inhaled, it is bound by the cell membrane and its surface-exposing lipoproteins induce strong antigenic reactions. However, its sophisticated antigenic variation makes it hard for the host immune system to produce proper antibody to suppress the infection. An extracellular polysaccharide structure may have capsule-like funcion. Describe any interactions with other organisms (included eukaryotes), contributions to the environment, effect on environment, etc.
Pathology
How does this organism cause disease? Human, animal, plant hosts? Virulence factors, as well as patient symptoms.
Application to Biotechnology
Does this organism produce any useful compounds or enzymes? What are they and how are they used?
Current Research
Enter summaries of the most recent research here--at least three required
References
Edited by Rene Ku, student of Rachel Larsen and Kit Pogliano
