Three-dimensional structures of pathogenic and saprophytic Leptospira species revealed by cryo-electron tomography

J Bacteriol. 2012 Mar;194(6):1299-306. doi: 10.1128/JB.06474-11. Epub 2012 Jan 6.

Abstract

Leptospira interrogans is the primary causative agent of the most widespread zoonotic disease, leptospirosis. An in-depth structural characterization of L. interrogans is needed to understand its biology and pathogenesis. In this study, cryo-electron tomography (cryo-ET) was used to compare pathogenic and saprophytic species and examine the unique morphological features of this group of bacteria. Specifically, our study revealed a structural difference between the cell envelopes of L. interrogans and Leptospira biflexa involving variations in the lipopolysaccharide (LPS) layer. Through cryo-ET and subvolume averaging, we determined the first three-dimensional (3-D) structure of the flagellar motor of leptospira, with novel features in the flagellar C ring, export apparatus, and stator. Together with direct visualization of chemoreceptor arrays, DNA packing, periplasmic filaments, spherical cytoplasmic bodies, and a unique "cap" at the cell end, this report provides structural insights into these fascinating Leptospira species.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Cryoelectron Microscopy
  • Electron Microscope Tomography
  • Flagella / ultrastructure
  • Imaging, Three-Dimensional
  • Leptospira / pathogenicity
  • Leptospira / ultrastructure*
  • Macromolecular Substances / ultrastructure

Substances

  • Macromolecular Substances