Cytology of spore formation in Clostridium perfringens.
The sequential morphological events in spore formation by Clostridium perfringens type D were observed in Ellner's medium where 80 to 100% of the cells formed spores. Gross structural changes were studied with the light microscope under phase-contrast, and in fixed cells by the use of both nigrosin and Giemsa preparations. Fine structure was examined with the electron microscope in both thin sections and frozen-etched preparations. During the first 3 hr of incubation, the original rod-shaped cells became ellipsoid to ovoid in shape; by 5 to 6 hr, subterminal spores had developed within these enlarged cells. The fine structural sequence was in most respects identical to that in other Bacillaceae, although some stages were illustrated with particular clarity. A unique feature was the development of a convoluted, membranous exosporium which adhered to the outer surface of the two coats and had an unusual fine structure resembling a rectangular array of subunits.
D003016:Clostridium perfringens / Q000166:cytology* / Q000254:growth & development; D005615:Freezing; D005987:Glyceraldehyde-3-Phosphate Dehydrogenases / Q000378:metabolism; D006652:Histological Techniques; D008853:Microscopy; D008854:Microscopy, Electron; D008858:Microscopy, Phase-Contrast; D013170:Spores / Q000254:growth & development*
D005987:Glyceraldehyde-3-Phosphate Dehydrogenases