Phospholipid molecular species distribution of Porphyromonas asaccharolytica ATCC 25260 super(T): effects of temperature, culture age and pH

• Published in: Journal of applied microbiology 1998-12, Vol.85 (6), p.1029-1035
• Main Authors: Tavana, A M, Drucker, D B, Boote, V
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• ISSN: 1364-5072

The aim of this study was to determine the extent to which phospholipid molecular species profiles are affected by different environmental factors in Porphyromonas asaccharolytica ATCC 25260 super(T). Phospholipids were analysed by Fast Atom Bombardment Mass Spectrometry (FAB-MS) in negative-ion mode. Under standard growth conditions (37 degree C, pH 7 times 0, 48 h), the most intense high mass anions were m/z 653 and 662. The latter is consistent with the expected presence of PE (30:0). The only changes in profiles were quantitative. These were compared using the Pearson Coefficient of Linear Correlation. The r-values for initial pH comparisons ranged from 0 times 82 (pH 7 times 0 vs pH 6 times 0) to 1 times 00 (pH 5 times 0 vs pH 8 times 0), for incubation period, from 0 times 86 (48 vs 72 h) to 0 times 97 (96 vs 168 h), and for temperature, from 0 times 57 (40 vs 37 degree C) to 0 times 96 (37 vs 36 degree C). Differences were also seen when plates were incubated in anaerobe jars as opposed to an anaerobic work station (r = 0 times 75). It is concluded that it is essential to standardize growth parameters, and to use an anaerobe jar or an anaerobe work station, but not both.