Plasmid DNA in Treponema pallidum (Nichols): potential for antibiotic resistance by syphilis bacteria

Science. 1981 Jul 31;213(4507):553-5. doi: 10.1126/science.6264606.

Abstract

A plasmid DNA structure (approximate molecular weight = 7.5 X 10(6)) was identified in the human pathogen Treponema pallidum (Nichols). The inability to isolate this plasmid from rabbit host tissue and the total lack of DNA homology of the plasmid with rabbit DNA has confirmed its Treponema pallidum origin. The observation documents a newly recognized and potentially significant genetic capability for Treponema pallidum.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Base Sequence
  • DNA Restriction Enzymes
  • DNA, Bacterial / genetics*
  • DNA, Recombinant / metabolism
  • Drug Resistance, Microbial
  • Microscopy, Electron
  • Molecular Weight
  • Nucleic Acid Hybridization
  • Plasmids*
  • Protein Biosynthesis
  • Rabbits
  • Treponema pallidum / genetics*

Substances

  • DNA, Bacterial
  • DNA, Recombinant
  • DNA Restriction Enzymes