ISSN:
1432-072X
Keywords:
Treponema denticola
;
Spirochetes
;
Ultrastructure
;
Electron microscopy
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Biology
Notes:
Abstract The formation of quasi-multicellular bodies of Treponema denticola was analysed using different electron microscopical methods. These bacteria could develop four different conformations: (i) normal helical forms; (ii) twisted spirochetes, forming plaits; (iii) twisted spirochetes, forming club-like structures; (iv) spherical bodies in different size. Treponemes within spherical bodies, plaits, and clubs proved to be enclosed in a common outer sheath in which the normal arrangement of their axial flagella was lost. The development of the quasi-multicellular bodies starting from the monoforme spirochetes was elucidated and this morphogenetic process is illustrated by a schematic drawing. Factors which might be involved in the induction of the structures are discussed and their possible pathogenetic importance is considered.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/BF00249126
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