Detection of different fimbriae-like structures on the surface of Staphylococcus saprophyticus.
In relation to the ability of adhesiveness to HEp-2-cells the sizes of capsules on three strains of Staphylococcus saprophyticus were examined using an electron microscopic India ink technique. There was a good correlation between small amounts of capsular material and good adherence to the tissue culture cells. In contrast to this a very large capsule could be demonstrated on a strain which adhered only in a poor manner. Some indications of fimbriae-like structures could be confirmed by negative staining. Three different appendages: thick, short sticks, long, branched fimbriae and fine, thin filaments on the surface of S. saprophyticus were detected. The possible functions of these surface structures in the adherence process represented in a hypothetical cell model is discussed.
Schmidt
H
H
Institute of Med. Microbiology, Wilhelm-Pieck-University of Rostock, GDR.
Naumann
G
G
Putzke
H P
HP
D001422:Bacterial Adhesion; D001437:Bacteriuria / Q000382:microbiology; D002244:Carbon; D002460:Cell Line; D004396:Coloring Agents; D010861:Fimbriae, Bacterial / Q000648:ultrastructure*; D006801:Humans; D008854:Microscopy, Electron; D013194:Staining and Labeling; D013210:Staphylococcus / Q000648:ultrastructure*
D004396:Coloring Agents; C028433:chinese ink; D002244:Carbon