Role of Protoplasts in Pathogenesis of Pyelonephritis

Abstract

The present experiments were designed to study the host-parasite-drug relationship in "protoplast" infection. Protoplasts are a form of bacteria characterized by loss of cell wall and consequent increased osmotic fragility. Because of this, protoplasts are not readily cultured on standard bacteriological media unless precautions are taken to osmotically stabilize the media. Protoplasts were isolated from renal tissue, following apparent cure of experimental pyelonephritis. Ureteral ligation, dehydration, or mannitol-induced diuresis did not cause exacerbation of protoplast infection. Erythromycin, an inhibitor of protein synthesis, while ineffective against the bacterial form of infection was successful in killing protoplasts in vivo.