Author:
Beveridge T. J.,Murray R. G. E.
Abstract
The cell envelope of Spirillum sp. strain "Ordal" (possibly a variety of S. anulus) demonstrated multiple superficial wall layers which were diverse in their macromolecular arrays. Negative staining and freeze-etching techniques revealed an outer hexagonally packed layer and an inner tetragonally packed layer. However, both thin sections and freeze-etched cleavages of the wall showed that each of these regular structures rested upon a backing layer, and that there was a delicate amorphous layer overlying the outer hexagonal array. Rotary integration, optical diffraction, and reconstruction of image were used to clarify measurements of each array and to verify the validity of a diagrammatic model of the outer hexagonal system. The integrity of these layers required suitable cations (Ca2+ appeared essential) and pH ([Formula: see text] dissociated most superficial layers). These observations aided in the development of a low-pH cationic-substitution technique, in which Na+ replaced essential Ca2+, for extraction of the layers from the cell surface. Dialysis to remove Na+ and restoration of Ca2+ initiated in vitro reassembly of the superficial layer components until regularly structured assembly products were formed.
Publisher
Canadian Science Publishing
Subject
Genetics,Molecular Biology,Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology,General Medicine,Immunology,Microbiology
Cited by
43 articles.
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