The full form of PPLO is Pleuro Pneumonia Like Organisms.
Understanding PPLO
PPLO, or Pleuro Pneumonia Like Organisms, are a group of bacteria belonging to the Mycoplasma genus. They are characterized as the smallest known free-living bacteria. The name originates from their initial discovery in the pleural fluid of cattle suffering from pleuropneumonia, a contagious lung disease.
Key Characteristics of PPLO:
- Small Size: These organisms are exceptionally small, ranging from 0.1 to 0.3 micrometers in diameter. This small size allows them to pass through bacterial filters.
- Lack of Cell Wall: Unlike most bacteria, PPLO lack a rigid cell wall. This lack of a cell wall makes them resistant to many common antibiotics, such as penicillin, which target cell wall synthesis.
- Pleomorphic: Due to the absence of a cell wall, PPLO exhibit a variety of shapes (pleomorphism).
- Found in Animals and Plants: Mycoplasma species can be found as pathogens in various animals and plants, causing a range of diseases.
- Cultivation: They are fastidious organisms, meaning they require specific nutrients and conditions to grow in the laboratory.
Historical Significance:
The discovery and study of PPLO have contributed significantly to our understanding of bacterial cell structure and the mechanisms of antibiotic action. Their unique characteristics have made them important model organisms for research in molecular biology and microbiology.
Modern Terminology:
While "PPLO" was historically used, the more common and scientifically accurate term now is Mycoplasma.
