Advances in Research of the Genus Mycoplasma from the Perspective of “One Health”

Dear Colleagues,

Mycoplasmas are considered self-replicating prokaryotes with the smallest genomes found on Earth. Among the main characteristics of this peculiar group, we find that they lack cell walls, and they contain a minimum set of organelles essential for growth and replication. Furthermore, mycoplasmas are naturally resistant or unaffected by a broad spectrum of antibiotics, including β-lactams, rifampicin, polymixins, sulfonamides, and others. Recent studies have also uncovered the high capacity of Mycoplasma spp. to extensively exchange genes between the different members of the genus, allowing them to acquire genetic material related to virulence, environmental resistance, and adaptability. These properties make the species of the Mycoplasma genus a serious threat for both public and animal health, which needs to be addressed under the “One Health” approach. Indeed, the conjunction of scientific disciplines focused on humans, animals, and the environment seems to be the best way to face this complex problem.

On the other hand, the convergence of two major scientific disciplines, namely molecular genetic and computational science, with current exponential growth has enabled the expansion and emergence of other scientific areas, including bioinformatics, immunoinformatics, reverse vaccinology, molecular epidemiology, and the rational design of drugs and diagnostic methods. Thus, with the support of these new tools, it is only a matter of time before the scientific community fills the current gaps in knowledge regarding the pathogenesis, virulence, and epidemiological relationships of mycoplasmas. Likewise, the development of more accurate and fast methods for the detection and discrimination of the pathogenic species of this genus can be seen with optimism. Different studies have also shed light in the field by looking at more effective vaccines and drugs to control the infection and transmission of mycoplasmas. For that reason, this Special Issue will focus on the advances in the research of Mycoplasma spp. We are in pursuit of high-quality information in this research field that will allow a better understanding of the pathogenesis, virulence, epidemiology, diagnosis, and control of the species of this genus with the support of novel technologies.

Dr. Katarzyna Dudek
Prof. Lester J. Perez
Guest Editors

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• Mycoplasma genus
• reverse vaccinology
• novel diagnostic tools
• molecular epidemiology
• pathogenesis
• virulence markers
• spatial analysis
• treatment and control

• Mycoplasma bovis Infections: Occurrence, Pathogenesis, Diagnosis and Control, Including Prevention and Therapy in Pathogens (10 articles)