Immune Response in Male Guinea Pigs Infected with the Guinea Pig Inclusion Conjunctivitis Agent of Chlamydia Psittaci
Abstract
Microorganisms belonging to the family chlamydiaceae are obligate intracellular bacteria. Although once thought to be viruses, members of this family possess a cell envelope similar to that found in gram negative bacteria, contain both DNA and RNA, possess ribosomes, synthesize their own proteins, nucleic acids and lipids,and are sensitive to commonly available antibiotics. Chlamydiae are unique in that they exhibit two morphologically distinct forms; a metabolically inert, small, spherical, infectious elementary body about 0.2 to 0.4 microns in diameter, and a larger, non-infectious, metabolically active intracellular form known as a reticulate body ranging between 0.6 and 1.0 microns in diameter. Because reticulate bodies cannot generate high energy phosphate bonds, they have adapted to the intracellular environment as energy parasites of epithelial cells lining the mucous membranes of birds, mammals, and man. Three different species of chlamydiae are currently recognized: Chlamydia psittaci, C pneumonia, and C trachomatis.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1994
- Accession Number
- ADA281860
Entities
People
- Thomas L. Patterson
Organizations
- Air Force Institute of Technology