Development and Growth of L Forms of Bacteria and PPLO on Membrane Filters.

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Abstract
Summary We have confirmed that L forms of bacteria and PPLO grow well on membrane filters of about 0.2 μ, or larger pore size when placed on the surface of appropriate solid media. The cultures grow through these filters and, according to our observations, also through filters of 0.1 μ on the surface of which no growth is visible. Bacteria exposed to inducing agents on membrane filters continue to grow as L forms, as on agar. With H. influenzae this occurs more readily and more abundantly than on agar media. The way in which the L forms develop from bacteria and the structure of the colonies is similar to that observed on agar. The bacteria grow to large bodies on the surface and, from these, growth embeds itself and extends inside the filters. The extension inside the filters consists of irregular connected masses or of irregular branching filaments. The size of these depends partly on the pore size of the filters but also on the individuality of the organisms. Air entrapped at the clearing of the filters with Canada balsam fills spaces similar to but coarser than those occupied by extending L colonies. In agar, the growth of L forms extends as small granules or short thin filaments. Observations on the growth of the L forms of bacteria on membrane filters contribute to our understanding of the nature of these forms. The similar behavior of L forms and PPLO on the filters further emphasizes the morphological similarity of these two groups of organisms.

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