Ureaplasma diversum is a species of Ureaplasma (class Mollicutes) belonging to the family Mycoplasmataceae. It primarily colonizes the genital and respiratory tracts of cattle and is associated with bovine reproductive disorders including granular vulvovaginitis, endometritis, placentitis, abortion, and the birth of weak calves.[1] The species was validly described in 1982 by Howard and Gourlay.[2]
Ureaplasma diversum belongs to the phylum Mycoplasmatota (class Mollicutes, order Mycoplasmoidales). The species epithet diversum ("diverse") refers to differences in polypeptide profiles and G+C content from human Ureaplasma species noted at the time of its description.[2][3]
Morphology and physiology
Like other mollicutes, U. diversum lacks a peptidoglycan cell wall, requires sterols for growth, and forms very small colonies. Urea hydrolysis is essential for energy generation, producing ammonia and altering the local pH. Capsule-like polysaccharide material has also been observed on the cell surface.[1][4]
Clinical significance in cattle
U. diversum is commonly detected in bovine herds and has been associated with granular vulvovaginitis, endometritis, salpingitis, and mastitis in cows. In bulls, it has been linked to balanoposthitis, epididymitis, and seminal vesiculitis. Infections have also been associated with early embryonic death, abortions, and weak neonates. Ureaplasma can contaminate semen and survive freezing, posing risks for artificial insemination (AI) and embryo transfer programs.[1][5]
Transmission and epidemiology
Transmission may occur during natural breeding, via contaminated semen in AI, during embryo transfer, and possibly vertically at parturition. U. diversum has been isolated from vaginal and preputial mucus, semen, milk, and conjunctival secretions.[1]
Treatment and control
Because mollicutes lack a cell wall, β-lactam antibiotics are ineffective. In vitro studies and clinical experience with Ureaplasma spp. indicate activity of macrolides, tetracyclines, and fluoroquinolones, although resistance to each class has been documented. Herd control measures emphasize biosecurity for semen and embryos, and hygiene during AI and embryo transfer. Standard antibiotic additives in embryo media may not reliably eliminate mollicutes.[6][1]
Type strain
The type strain is A417 (=ATCC 43321 =CIP 106089 =DSM 21276 =NCTC 10182).[3]
1 2 Howard, CJ; Gourlay, RN (1982). "Proposal for a second species within the genus Ureaplasma, Ureaplasma diversum sp. nov". International Journal of Systematic Bacteriology. 32 (4): 446–452. doi:10.1099/00207713-32-4-446.
↑ Beeton, ML; Spiller, OB (February 2017). "Antibiotic resistance among Ureaplasma spp. isolates: cause for concern?". Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy. 72 (2): 330–337. doi:10.1093/jac/dkw425. PMID27798207.
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