Heteromorphism of Persistence of Sapronosis Causative Agents in Cells in Various Environmental Conditions

Abstract

The paper discusses the issues of morphofunctional variability of sapronoses pathogens in stressful environment. In the current century, sapronoses infections attract increasing attention. Under unfavorable environmental conditions the pathogens use the strategy for the formation of resting (stable) states, that is: viable but non-culturable cell formes and persistent bacteria, which are characterized by reduced metabolism and changes in the morphology and physiology of the microorganisms, termination of replication. Possibility of sapronoses pathogens survival in interepidemic period and antibiotic resistance formation, which play an important role in chronic infections, are associated with the formation of persistent forms of bacteria. The literature extensively discusses mechanisms and conditions of the pathogenic bacteria stable states formation and their pathogenetic contribution to infectious pathology, whereas ultrastructural organization and morphological variability of persistent cell forms, as well as their differentiation, causing the pathogens population heterogeneity, is still insufficiently illuminated. Based on the analysis of current data and their own experience, the authors evaluate the morphological and functional changes of bacteria stable cellular forms and their role in sapronoses pathogens adaptation strategies.

Keywords

• sapronoses
• morphology
• ultrastructure and adaptive changes of pathogens
• viable but non-culturable cells
• persister-cells