The influence of temperature and pH on the growth of Rickettsia conorii in irradiated mammalian cells.
The temperature range for optimum growth of Rickettsia conorii in suspension culture of gamma-irradiated L cells was 32-38 degrees C, resulting in rickettsial doubling times between 4.1 and 6.0 hr. An asynchronous release of R. conorii from host cells was suggested by the constant increase in percent cells infected over a 36 hr period. Rickettsial growth was optimal at neutral to slightly alkaline extracellular pH levels. A moderately acidic pH, however, resulted in an increase in doubling time from 4.1 to 7.8 hr.
D000818:Animals; D002455:Cell Division; D005720:Gamma Rays; D006863:Hydrogen-Ion Concentration; D007739:L Cells / Q000528:radiation effects*; D051379:Mice; D012281:Rickettsia / Q000254:growth & development*; D013696:Temperature