Abstract
Publisher Summary In the differentiation of a bacterial cell into a spore, a number of new morphological structures are formed. The cortex and germ cell wall are specialized adaptations of vegetative structures. Spore coats, exosporia, and appendages are new structures embodying new classes of microbial products. Within the spore cell or core, unique constituents—such as dipicolinic acid and very different proportions of normal metabolites and electrolytes—are found. The mature spore has very well-known properties of resistance to heat, radiation, enzymes, disinfectants, and other deleterious agents. This chapter discusses the composition and structure of the spore cytoplasm and each of the spore integuments. The contribution of each component determining the essential properties of the spore is discussed in the chapter. Of particular interest is the heat resistant and ametabolic state of spores. This appears to be mainly a consequence of reduced water content in the core. The chapter discusses the possible chemo-mechanical properties of the cortex and examines models for its role in the dehydration of the core.
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