An overview of the Pathogenesis and Virulence of Mycoplasma gallisepticum infection - a review

Mycoplasma gallisepticum (Mg) belongs to the class Mollicutes, the smallest and simplest microorganisms which lack a cell wall and are capable of self-replication outside a host. Mg is the primary etiological agent of chronic respiratory diseases in poultry, and causes major economic losses. Recently, owing to advances in scientific knowledge, large data sets have become available for Mg, providing sequencing data, new typing strategies, diagnostic methods, and means for comprehensive studies. The aim of this review is to summarize the current knowledge regarding the virulence, variable surface lipoproteins, invasion of host cells, adhesion, antigenic variation, biofilm formation, and modulation of the host immune system. Moreover, the broader picture includes the emergence of Mg successfully combating host immunity and adapting to the new host or niches, having evolved a number of strategies and mechanisms, contributing to the pathogenesis and dissemination of Mg infection.