Ureaplasma urealyticum (U. urealyticum) urease-positive bacteria

Did you know?
Ureaplasma urealyticum is one of the few human pathogens that can survive without iron. Instead, it relies on nickel for its urease enzyme, making it unusually vulnerable to nickel deprivation and a prime target for metal-based therapeutic strategies.

Ureaplasma urealyticum (U. urealyticum)

Researched by:

  • Karen Pendergrass ID
    Karen Pendergrass

    User avatarKaren Pendergrass is a microbiome researcher specializing in microbiome-targeted interventions (MBTIs). She systematically analyzes scientific literature to identify microbial patterns, develop hypotheses, and validate interventions. As the founder of the Microbiome Signatures Database, she bridges microbiome research with clinical practice. In 2012, based on her own investigative research, she became the first documented case of FMT for Celiac Disease—four years before the first published case study.

June 10, 2025

Ureaplasma urealyticum is a wall-less, urease-producing pathobiont of the urogenital tract linked to infertility, preterm birth, and neonatal lung disease. Its virulence stems from nickel-dependent urease activity, immune-evasive antigens, and proinflammatory lipoproteins.

Researched by:

  • Karen Pendergrass ID
    Karen Pendergrass

    User avatarKaren Pendergrass is a microbiome researcher specializing in microbiome-targeted interventions (MBTIs). She systematically analyzes scientific literature to identify microbial patterns, develop hypotheses, and validate interventions. As the founder of the Microbiome Signatures Database, she bridges microbiome research with clinical practice. In 2012, based on her own investigative research, she became the first documented case of FMT for Celiac Disease—four years before the first published case study.

Last Updated: April 23, 2025

Microbiome Signatures identifies and validates condition-specific microbiome shifts and interventions to accelerate clinical translation. Our multidisciplinary team supports clinicians, researchers, and innovators in turning microbiome science into actionable medicine.

Karen Pendergrass

Karen Pendergrass is a microbiome researcher specializing in microbiome-targeted interventions (MBTIs). She systematically analyzes scientific literature to identify microbial patterns, develop hypotheses, and validate interventions. As the founder of the Microbiome Signatures Database, she bridges microbiome research with clinical practice. In 2012, based on her own investigative research, she became the first documented case of FMT for Celiac Disease—four years before the first published case study.

Overview

Ureaplasma urealyticum is a wall-less bacterium in the class Mollicutes (phylum Mycoplasmatota)​. It belongs to the family Mycoplasmataceae (genus Ureaplasma)​. Two biovars now classified as separate species exist: U. parvum (biovar 1) and U. urealyticum (biovar 2)​. U. parvum is more common as a commensal, whereas U. urealyticum is somewhat more often linked to pathology (e.g. male urethritis and male infertility)​.[1]Ureaplasma urealyticum is implicated in a spectrum of urogenital and perinatal conditions, chiefly as an opportunistic pathogen when it overgrows or invades new sites. Its role in disease is often linked to an increase in its numbers (or an unusual presence) relative to healthy states. Therapeutically, its vulnerabilities – acid intolerance, lack of a cell wall, and susceptibility to certain antibiotics – provide multiple angles to counteract its pathogenic effects in these conditions.

Habitat and Classification

U. urealyticum is typically a commensal opportunistic pathogen of the human urogenital tract. It colonizes the lower genital mucosa of healthy adults, often without symptoms​. In healthy conditions, it remains in low abundance and is kept in check by the normal flora. Transmission occurs via direct contact, or vertically from mother to neonate at birth​. Although frequently present in healthy individuals, it can cause disease when overgrown or introduced to normally sterile sites, and is therefore considered a pathobiont​. Immunocompromised hosts and disruption of the normal microbiota increase its pathogenic opportunities.

Morphology and Physiology

U. urealyticum is among the smallest free-living bacteria. Cells are pleomorphic and extremely small (approximately 100–800 nm in diameter), typically appearing as coccoid forms (clusters of tiny spheres)​. [2][x] They lack a cell wall entirely – only a single triple-layered unit membrane surrounds the cell​. This absence of peptidoglycan means they do not Gram stain (often described as Gram-negative by default)​. The membrane contains sterols, which Ureaplasma scavenges from the host, and this is required for growth​. U. urealyticum is non-motile (no flagella, though it may glide minimally) and non-spore-forming. ​It is a facultative anaerobe, able to grow in both aerobic and anaerobic environments, though it prefers microaerophilic conditions​. [3]

Metabolism

As a Mollicute with a drastically reduced genome, U. urealyticum has limited metabolic capacities and relies on the host for many nutrients. A defining biochemical feature is its nickel-dependent urease activity – it hydrolyzes urea to ammonia and carbon dioxide. This not only provides a nitrogen source but also alkalinizes the local environment (ammonia elevates pH). In the acidic vaginal niche, this urease-driven ammonia production helps Ureaplasma survive by counteracting acidity, but it also produces a characteristic “fishy” odor in infections (ammonia contributing to the amine odor in bacterial vaginosis BV)​ U. urealyticum requires rich media (with serum for cholesterol, urea, and other growth factors) and parasitizes host resources like amino acids and fatty acids. It cannot synthesize many essential biomolecules, making it an obligate host-associated bacterium.

Virulence Factors

Ureaplasma urealyticum is a mucosal pathogen whose ability to cause disease stems primarily from a combination of colonization factors—such as adhesins like the Multiple Banded Antigen (MBA) that mediate attachment to host epithelium and facilitate immune evasion—and damage factors, including enzymes and proinflammatory lipoproteins that injure host tissues or dysregulate immune responses. While typically present at low abundance in the lower genital tract with limited pathogenicity, U. urealyticum can become harmful when bacterial loads increase or when the organism invades normally sterile sites such as the endometrium, placenta, neonatal lungs, or bloodstream. In these contexts, its virulence factors contribute to significant pathology, including chorioamnionitis, preterm labor, bronchopulmonary dysplasia, and disseminated infections in immunocompromised individuals.[x] Unlike certain commensals, U. urealyticum provides no known benefits to the host, such as nutrient synthesis or pathogen exclusion, and is thus considered a parasitic member of the microbiome.[4] The table below summarizes the major virulence factors contributing to its pathogenesis.

Virulence FactorDescription and Function
UreaseA nickel-dependent metalloenzyme that hydrolyzes urea into ammonia and CO₂. Urease functions in nutrient acquisition but also acts as a virulence factor. Ammonia is cytotoxic at high concentrations and elevates local pH, aiding Ureaplasma survival in acidic environments (e.g., vagina, urinary tract). This may enable ascending infections by overcoming acidic barriers. [5]
Multiple Banded Antigen (MBA)A major surface lipoprotein present in multiple sizes (“bands”) that undergoes antigenic variation, allowing Ureaplasma to evade the host immune response by altering its surface epitopes. The C-terminal domain is highly immunogenic, eliciting host antibodies, but sequence variation permits immune evasion. This is a key mechanism contributing to chronic or recurrent infections. [6]
Phospholipases (A and C)Enzymes that hydrolyze host cell membrane phospholipids, causing cell lysis and inflammation. This activity can degrade epithelial and chorioamnion membranes, contributing to tissue destruction. Released lipids may serve as nutrients for the bacterium.[7]
IgA ProteaseAn enzyme that cleaves secretory IgA, the main immunoglobulin in mucosal secretions. By degrading IgA, Ureaplasma reduces immune-mediated clearance on mucosal surfaces, facilitating persistent colonization of the urogenital tract.[8]
Surface Lipoproteins and Immune ActivationThe membrane of Ureaplasma is rich in lipoproteins (e.g., MBA) that act as pathogen-associated molecular patterns, recognized by Toll-like receptors (especially TLR2). This recognition triggers a robust proinflammatory response (e.g., IL-6, IL-8), particularly in the amniotic fluid, leading to conditions like chorioamnionitis and preterm labor. In neonates, Ureaplasma colonization may cause bronchopulmonary dysplasia and is implicated in retinopathy of prematurity. While these molecules aid in adherence and persistence, they also provoke inflammation central to pathogenesis.[9]

Metallomics

Despite possessing one of the smallest genomes among self-replicating organisms, Ureaplasma urealyticum exhibits a highly specialized and tightly regulated dependence on certain trace metals, which are essential for its survival, metabolic activity, and pathogenic potential. The following table summarizes the organism’s trace metal dependencies, acquisition strategies, and interactions with host-imposed metal limitation, providing insight into its metallomic vulnerabilities and potential therapeutic targets.

MetalRole in U. urealyticum Physiology and Pathogenesis
Nickel (Ni)Nickel is an critical cofactor for urease, a major virulence factor. Urease hydrolyzes urea to ammonia and CO₂, aiding pH neutralization and tissue colonization. Genes for urease accessory proteins (UreE, UreF, UreG) support nickel incorporation. Some strains encode Nur (nickel-responsive regulator) and Ni transporters, suggesting active uptake. Nickel availability is critical—as Ni limitation impairs urease function, environmental stability, and virulence. [10][11]
Zinc (Zn)Zinc is required for DNA-binding proteins and key enzymes (e.g., metalloproteases, polymerases). U. urealyticum encodes the Zur (zinc uptake regulator), indicating tight control of Zn homeostasis. Likely acquires Zn²⁺ via ABC-type or ZIP family transporters. Host Zn sequestration by proteins like calprotectin poses a nutritional challenge, prompting high-affinity Zn uptake responses. [12]
Manganese (Mn)Functions in enzymes that substitute for iron (e.g., Mn-dependent superoxide dismutases). Regulated by the Mn-specific Mur regulator. Essential for managing oxidative stress and possibly metabolic processes. Like Zn, Mn is sequestered by host calprotectin, necessitating high-affinity Mn acquisition systems.[13]
Copper (Cu)U. urealyticum is highly sensitive to copper. It lacks known Cu detoxification or efflux systems and is inhibited by Cu²⁺ concentrations as low as 30–60 μM. Copper toxicity can be exploited therapeutically; Cu chelators enhance killing. Host macrophages use copper for antimicrobial activity (e.g., in phagolysosomes), posing a significant threat to the bacterium. [14]
Iron (Fe)U. urealyticum exhibits minimal iron dependence. It lacks genes for siderophores, heme biosynthesis, and other classical iron acquisition systems. A unique iron-independent ribonucleotide reductase allows DNA synthesis without iron. This adaptation enables survival under host-imposed iron limitation, achieving an “iron-free existence.” [15]

Vulnerabilities

Given its unique biology, U. urealyticum has several vulnerabilities that can be targeted to inhibit its growth or eliminate it. These weaknesses stem from its lack of certain structures, metabolic dependencies, and environmental sensitivities. U. urealyticum is vulnerable to environmental changes: low pH, high oxidative stress, and lack of available nutrients (cholesterol, amino acids, certain metals). It is highly drug-susceptible to antibiotics targeting protein or DNA synthesis, although intrinsic resistance to cell wall agents exists. Its fragility outside the host is a natural weakness that limits transmission mainly to close contact. These vulnerabilities guide both the body’s natural defenses and medical interventions to control Ureaplasma infections.

Vulnerability / FactorDescription and Therapeutic Implications
Acid SensitivityU. urealyticum thrives near neutral pH and is inhibited by acidic environments. Lactobacilli in the vagina maintain a low pH (~4.0–4.5), suppressing Ureaplasma overgrowth. When pH rises (e.g., in bacterial vaginosis), Ureaplasma can proliferate. Acidifying treatments such as boric acid or lactic acid gels, making vaginal acidity enhancement a natural and therapeutic defense.[16]
Metal LimitationHost nutritional immunity limits access to essential metals like Zn and Ni. Calprotectin sequesters Zn and Mn, restricting growth. Nickel is a critical co-factor for urease activity; its limitation weakens acid resistance and colonization. Therapeutically, chelating agents targeting Ni or Zn such as clioquinol or dimethylglyoxime (DMG) reduce virulence factors and suppress Ureaplasma growth.

Copper is also particularly toxic: U. urealyticum lacks robust Cu detox systems and is highly sensitive to Cu²⁺ stress. Copper ionophores have shown promising antimicrobial activity in vitro. [17]
Immune Factors and Microbial CompetitionLactobacillus species inhibit U. urealyticum via H₂O₂ production, low pH maintenance, and competition for epithelial adhesion. Ureaplasma is highly susceptible to hydrogen peroxide due to the absence of catalase. Probiotic restoration of Lactobacillus with vaginal microbiome transplant (VMT) may help suppress overgrowth. Innate immune components like defensins (cationic peptides) also target Ureaplasma’s membrane, and in immunocompetent individuals, Ureaplasma is typically maintained at low levels through these combined defenses.
AntibioticsU. urealyticum is generally susceptible to protein synthesis inhibitors like tetracyclines (doxycycline) and macrolides (azithromycin), and to DNA-targeting fluoroquinolones. Resistance can arise via point mutations (e.g., in 23S rRNA, gyrA), but its small genome limits multidrug resistance. Strains resistant to one class often remain sensitive to another. Biovar 2 (U. urealyticum) tends to be more antibiotic-sensitive than U. parvum, offering a treatment advantage. [18]
Lack of Cell WallAs a wall-less bacterium, U. urealyticum is highly sensitive to osmotic and physical stress. It cannot survive drying, hypotonic shock, or mild disinfectants. This fragility contributes to its host-restricted, mucosal niche and susceptibility to membrane-disrupting agents (e.g., polymyxins, digitonin, detergents).[19] While inherently resistant to β-lactams (no peptidoglycan target), it is vulnerable to membrane-destabilizing compounds, highlighting a potential Achilles heel outside the host.

Associated Conditions

The table below summarizes conditions and diseases associated with U. urealyticum, indicating whether its abundance is increased (implicated as a contributing pathogen) or decreased (protective role, which generally does not apply to this organism) in the condition. Also noted are possible therapeutic or preventive targets based on Ureaplasma’s vulnerabilities.

ConditionRole in Microbiome/Pathology
EndometriosisStage III–IV endometriosis patients had significantly higher Ureaplasma in the cervix​, likely extending to the uterus. [20] Ureaplasma was also present in the ectopic lesions. [21]
Non-Gonococcal Urethritis (NGU)U. urealyticum is a well-established cause of non-chlamydial, nongonococcal urethritis. It colonizes the male urethra and triggers inflammation, accounting for a significant fraction of NGU cases​. [22]
Bacterial Vaginosis (BV)Ureaplasma frequency and load are higher in Bacterial Vaginosis (BV), a dysbiosis state. It is often found co-existing with anaerobes in BV and may contribute to the altered vaginal environment. The overgrowth of U. urealyticum in BV is likely secondary to loss of Lactobacillus competition. [23]
Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)
U. urealyticum is sometimes isolated from the endometrium in PID patients, but its role appears to be opportunistic. It may accompany other STD pathogens during upper genital tract infection. Studies show Ureaplasma can persist in the uterus during and after PID, but it doesn’t drastically alter PID clinical course​. Thus, it’s considered an adjunct pathogen rather than a primary PID cause. [24]
Infertility
Chronic Ureaplasma infection is associated with male and female infertility. In women, persistent Ureaplasma in the cervix/uterus can cause endometritis or damage to fallopian tubes, hindering conception​. In men, Ureaplasma in semen is linked to prostatitis or impaired sperm parameters (it can attach to sperm and reduce motility). While direct causation is still being studied, many infertile couples show higher prevalence of U. urealyticum infection.[25]
Chorioamnionitis & Preterm BirthUreaplasma is the microbe most often isolated from infected placentas in preterm labor​. It colonizes the chorioamnion and induces inflammation (chorioamnionitis); this intrauterine infection is strongly linked to preterm birth, especially in births <32 weeks. [26]Ureaplasma infection in utero triggers cytokine release that can initiate labor​. [27] It is also associated with premature rupture of membranes.
Neonatal Bronchopulmonary DysplasiaColonization of preterm infants’ airways with U. urealyticum is a significant risk factor for bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD). Meta-analyses confirm that preterm babies who are Ureaplasma-positive (in respiratory specimens) have higher odds of developing BPD than those without Ureaplasma​.[28] The organism likely persists in the immature lung, provoking prolonged inflammation that impairs lung development.
Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP)Emerging data suggest that inflammatory exposure to Ureaplasma in utero or postnatally may contribute to ROP, a retinal disease in preemies. Ureaplasma has been found in the respiratory tract of infants who later develop severe ROP more often than in those who do not. The hypothesis is that Ureaplasma-induced systemic inflammation (cytokines, etc.) affects retinal vascular development. This association is still under investigation, but is plausible given the known inflammatory role of Ureaplasma.[29]
Struvite Kidney StonesU. urealyticum is a urease-producing organism and has been implicated in infection-induced kidney stones. Urease raises urine pH and leads to crystallization of magnesium ammonium phosphate (struvite). Experiments show that inoculating Ureaplasma into animal bladders causes struvite stone formation in 80% of cases​. Clinically, Ureaplasma has been cultured from the stones and urine of patients with struvite staghorn calculi, indicating it can be an etiologic agent of urinary stones (especially when standard cultures are negative for common urease bacteria like Proteus).[30]
Postpartum Endometritis
Ureaplasma urealyticum is frequently involved in postpartum endometritis, particularly after cesarean delivery or prolonged labor. It may ascend from the cervix to the uterus during delivery. Women with post-cesarean endometritis have significantly higher Ureaplasma loads in cervical cultures compared to those without infection (e.g., ≥10^5 CFU in 39% of endometritis cases vs 17% of controls.[31]Ureaplasma can cause persistent fever and inflammation despite standard antibiotics that don’t cover it.

Interventions

InterventionMechanism
Acetohydroxamic acid
Pharmacological
Acetohydroxamic Acid (AHA), a urease inhibitor, functions as a microbiome-targeted intervention (MBTI) against Ureaplasma urealyticum by specifically disrupting its nickel-dependent metabolic pathway. AHA acts as a potent urease inhibitor by competitively binding to the nickel ions located at the active site of the urease enzyme—an essential virulence factor for U. urealyticum. This interference effectively prevents the pathogen from utilizing nickel to activate urease, thereby impairing its ability to hydrolyze urea into ammonia. By targeting the metallomic dependency of the pathogen, AHA directly modulates the microbial function and ecological fitness of U. urealyticum.
Antibiotics
Pharmacological
Ureaplasma’s sensitivity to tetracyclines and macrolides. First-line therapy with doxycycline or azithromycin typically eradicates Ureaplasma. Beta-lactams are ineffective due to the absence of a cell wall.
Lactobacillus
Probiotic
Restoration of acidic vaginal pH and normal flora can suppress Ureaplasma. Intravaginal lactic acid gels exploit its acid sensitivity. Probiotic Lactobacillus species further inhibit growth by producing bacteriocidins and hydrogen peroxide and occupying ecological niches.

FAQs

What is Ureaplasma urealyticum and how is it classified?

Ureaplasma urealyticum is a species of cell wall–lacking, facultative anaerobic bacteria belonging to the class Mollicutes, family Mycoplasmataceae. It is a commensal and opportunistic pathogen primarily inhabiting the human urogenital tract. Its classification within the Ureaplasma genus is based on 16S rRNA gene sequencing and serological typing.

What role does U. urealyticum play in the microbiome?

While it may exist asymptomatically in many individuals, U. urealyticum is often enriched in dysbiotic microbiomes, especially those characterized by a loss of Lactobacillus dominance. It contributes to mucosal inflammation, local alkalinization through urease activity, and epithelial barrier disruption, suggesting a role as a conditionally pathogenic microorganism within the microbiome.

What is the relevance of urease activity in U. urealyticum?

U. urealyticum expresses a potent nickel-dependent urease that hydrolyzes urea into ammonia and carbon dioxide. This alkalinizes the local environment, enabling bacterial persistence and contributing to:

•  Mucosal irritation and inflammation

•  Increased pH-dependent pathogen colonization

•  Stone formation in the urinary tract
Urease activity is central to its pathogenic mechanism and is a potential antimicrobial target.

Is U. urealyticum resistant to common antibiotics?

Yes. Due to its lack of a peptidoglycan cell wall, U. urealyticum is intrinsically resistant to β-lactam antibiotics. Macrolides, tetracyclines, and fluoroquinolones are the most commonly used classes, but resistance is increasingly reported, particularly to tetracyclines. Resistance profiling may be necessary for effective treatment.

Can microbiome-targeted therapies help manage U. urealyticum overgrowth?

Yes. Targeted modulation of the urogenital microbiome through Lactobacillus-dominant probiotics, pH-lowering agents, or nickel chelation strategies (e.g., lactoferrin or dimethylglyoxime) may suppress U. urealyticum by reducing its ecological niche and impairing urease-dependent survival.

Nickel

Bacteria regulate transition metal levels through complex mechanisms to ensure survival and adaptability, influencing both their physiology and the development of antimicrobial strategies.

Urease

Urease is a nickel-dependent microbial enzyme that breaks down urea into ammonia, altering local pH and nitrogen availability. While essential for microbial survival in acidic niches and nutrient-limited environments, urease activity also contributes to conditions like ulcers, urinary stones, colitis, and hepatic encephalopathy.

Urease

Urease is a nickel-dependent microbial enzyme that breaks down urea into ammonia, altering local pH and nitrogen availability. While essential for microbial survival in acidic niches and nutrient-limited environments, urease activity also contributes to conditions like ulcers, urinary stones, colitis, and hepatic encephalopathy.

Nickel

Bacteria regulate transition metal levels through complex mechanisms to ensure survival and adaptability, influencing both their physiology and the development of antimicrobial strategies.

Urease

Urease is a nickel-dependent microbial enzyme that breaks down urea into ammonia, altering local pH and nitrogen availability. While essential for microbial survival in acidic niches and nutrient-limited environments, urease activity also contributes to conditions like ulcers, urinary stones, colitis, and hepatic encephalopathy.

Zinc

Zinc is an essential trace element vital for cellular functions and microbiome health. It influences immune regulation, pathogen virulence, and disease progression in conditions like IBS and breast cancer. Pathogens exploit zinc for survival, while therapeutic zinc chelation can suppress virulence, rebalance the microbiome, and offer potential treatments for inflammatory and degenerative diseases.

Urease

Urease is a nickel-dependent microbial enzyme that breaks down urea into ammonia, altering local pH and nitrogen availability. While essential for microbial survival in acidic niches and nutrient-limited environments, urease activity also contributes to conditions like ulcers, urinary stones, colitis, and hepatic encephalopathy.

Vaginal Microbiome Transplant (VMT)

Vaginal Microbiome Transplant (VMT) involves transferring healthy vaginal flora from a donor to a recipient to treat conditions like recurrent bacterial vaginosis. It aims to restore balance in the vaginal microbiome, potentially offering a non-pharmacological treatment option for persistent gynecological disorders.

Endometriosis

Endometriosis involves ectopic endometrial tissue causing pain and infertility. Validated and Promising Interventions include Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT), Low Nickel Diet, and Metronidazole therapy.

Ureaplasma urealyticum (U. urealyticum)

Ureaplasma urealyticum is a wall-less, urease-producing pathobiont of the urogenital tract linked to infertility, preterm birth, and neonatal lung disease. Its virulence stems from nickel-dependent urease activity, immune-evasive antigens, and proinflammatory lipoproteins.

Bacterial Vaginosis

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is caused by an imbalance in the vaginal microbiota, where the typically dominant Lactobacillus species are significantly reduced, leading to an overgrowth of anaerobic and facultative bacteria.

Infertility

Infertility is the inability to conceive after 12 months of regular, unprotected sex. It affects both men and women and can be due to various physical, hormonal, or genetic factors. Treatments include medication, surgery, assisted reproductive technologies, and lifestyle changes.

Urease

Urease is a nickel-dependent microbial enzyme that breaks down urea into ammonia, altering local pH and nitrogen availability. While essential for microbial survival in acidic niches and nutrient-limited environments, urease activity also contributes to conditions like ulcers, urinary stones, colitis, and hepatic encephalopathy.

Urease

Urease is a nickel-dependent microbial enzyme that breaks down urea into ammonia, altering local pH and nitrogen availability. While essential for microbial survival in acidic niches and nutrient-limited environments, urease activity also contributes to conditions like ulcers, urinary stones, colitis, and hepatic encephalopathy.

Urease

Urease is a nickel-dependent microbial enzyme that breaks down urea into ammonia, altering local pH and nitrogen availability. While essential for microbial survival in acidic niches and nutrient-limited environments, urease activity also contributes to conditions like ulcers, urinary stones, colitis, and hepatic encephalopathy.

References

  1. Associations of Ureaplasma urealyticum infection with male infertility and intrauterine insemination outcomes.. Wan YY, Shi XY, Liu WJ, Bai S, Chen X, Li SY, Jiang XH, Wu LM, Zhang XS, Hua J.. (Asian J Androl. 2025.)
  2. Ureaplasma gallorale sp. nov. from the Oropharynx of Chickens.. Koshimizu, K & Harasawa, Ryô & Pan, I.-J & Kotani, H & Ogata, M & Stephens, Edward & Barile, And.. (InternInternational Journal of Systematic Bacteriology.ational Journal of Systematic Bacteriology. 1987.)
  3. BacDive in 2025: the core database for prokaryotic strain data.. Isabel Schober, Julia Koblitz, Joaquim Sardà Carbasse, Christian Ebeling, Marvin Leon Schmidt, Adam Podstawka, Rohit Gupta, Vinodh Ilangovan, Javad Chamanara, Jörg Overmann, Lorenz Christian Reimer. (Nucleic Acids Research. 2025.)
  4. Ureaplasma: current perspectives.. Kokkayil P, Dhawan B.. (Indian J Med Microbiol. 2015.)
  5. Ureaplasma: current perspectives.. Kokkayil P, Dhawan B.. (Indian J Med Microbiol. 2015.)
  6. Ureaplasma: current perspectives.. Kokkayil P, Dhawan B.. (Indian J Med Microbiol. 2015.)
  7. Ureaplasma: current perspectives.. Kokkayil P, Dhawan B.. (Indian J Med Microbiol. 2015.)
  8. Ureaplasma: current perspectives.. Kokkayil P, Dhawan B.. (Indian J Med Microbiol. 2015.)
  9. Ureaplasma: current perspectives.. Kokkayil P, Dhawan B.. (Indian J Med Microbiol. 2015.)
  10. https://doi.org/.
  11. Metal utilization in genome-reduced bacteria: Do human mycoplasmas rely on iron?. Perálvarez-Marín A, Baranowski E, Bierge P, Pich OQ, Lebrette H.. (Comput Struct Biotechnol J. 2021)
  12. Metal utilization in genome-reduced bacteria: Do human mycoplasmas rely on iron?. Perálvarez-Marín A, Baranowski E, Bierge P, Pich OQ, Lebrette H.. (Comput Struct Biotechnol J. 2021)
  13. Metal utilization in genome-reduced bacteria: Do human mycoplasmas rely on iron?. Perálvarez-Marín A, Baranowski E, Bierge P, Pich OQ, Lebrette H.. (Comput Struct Biotechnol J. 2021)
  14. Differential Susceptibility of Mycoplasma and Ureaplasma Species to Compound-Enhanced Copper Toxicity. Totten AH, Crawford CL, Dalecki AG, Xiao L, Wolschendorf F, Atkinson TP.. (Front Microbiol. 2019)
  15. Metal utilization in genome-reduced bacteria: Do human mycoplasmas rely on iron?. Perálvarez-Marín A, Baranowski E, Bierge P, Pich OQ, Lebrette H.. (Comput Struct Biotechnol J. 2021)
  16. Ureaplasma urealyticum,. Sarah S. Long, Charles G. Prober, Marc Fischer.. (Principles and Practice of Pediatric Infectious Diseases (Fifth Edition), Elsevier, 2018)
  17. Differential Susceptibility of Mycoplasma and Ureaplasma Species to Compound-Enhanced Copper Toxicity.. Totten AH, Crawford CL, Dalecki AG, Xiao L, Wolschendorf F, Atkinson TP.. (Front Microbiol. 2019)
  18. Ureaplasma: current perspectives.. Kokkayil P, Dhawan B.. (Indian J Med Microbiol. 2015)
  19. Localization of enzymes in Ureaplasma urealyticum (T-strain mycoplasma).. Masover GK, Razin S, Hayflick L.. (J Bacteriol. 1977)
  20. Gut and Vaginal Microbiota in the Endometriosis: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.. Colonetti T, Saggioratto MC, Grande AJ, Colonetti L, Junior JCD, Ceretta LB, Roever L, Silva FR, da Rosa MI.. (Biomed Res Int. 2023)
  21. Gut and Vaginal Microbiota in the Endometriosis: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.. Colonetti T, Saggioratto MC, Grande AJ, Colonetti L, Junior JCD, Ceretta LB, Roever L, Silva FR, da Rosa MI.. (Biomed Res Int. 2023)
  22. Ureaplasma Infection: Practice Essentials, Background, Pathophysiology.. Waites KB.. (Medscape.com. Published November 14, 2022. Accessed June 9, 2025. ‌)
  23. Association of bacterial vaginosis with the most common sexually transmitted infections.. Atanasievska, Sonja & Ristanovic, Elizabeta & Protic-Djokic, Vesna & Nenadic, Dane. (2022).. (Srpski arhiv za celokupno lekarstvo. (2022))
  24. Significance of genital mycoplasmas in pelvic inflammatory disease: innocent bystander!. Chatwani A, Harmanli OH, Nyirjesy P, Reece EA.. (Infect Dis Obstet Gynecol. 1996;4(5):263-8.)
  25. Ureaplasma: current perspectives.. Kokkayil P, Dhawan B.. (Indian J Med Microbiol. 2015 Apr-Jun;33(2):205-14.)
  26. Placental Infection With Ureaplasma species Is Associated With Histologic Chorioamnionitis and Adverse Outcomes in Moderately Preterm and Late-Preterm Infants.. Sweeney EL, Kallapur SG, Gisslen T, Lambers DS, Chougnet CA, Stephenson SA, Jobe AH, Knox CL.. (J Infect Dis. 2016 Apr 15;213(8):1340-7.)
  27. Ureaplasma: current perspectives.. Kokkayil P, Dhawan B.. (Indian J Med Microbiol. 2015 Apr-Jun;33(2):205-14.)
  28. Association between Ureaplasma urealyticum colonization and bronchopulmonary dysplasia in preterm infants: a systematic review and meta-analysis.. Chen X, Huang X, Zhou Q, Kang H, Qiu H, Shi L, Tang H, Zeng S.. (Front Pediatr. 2024 Aug 8;12:1436568.)
  29. The association between respiratory tract Ureaplasma urealyticum colonization and severe retinopathy of prematurity in preterm infants ≤1250 g.. Ozdemır R, Sarı FN, Tunay ZO, Erdeve O, Canpolat FE, Oguz SS, Uras N, Dılmen U.. (Eye (Lond). 2012 Jul;26(7):992-6.)
  30. Urinary infection stones caused by Ureaplasma urealyticum: a review.. Grenabo L, Hedelin H, Pettersson S.. (Scand J Infect Dis Suppl. 1988;53:46-9)
  31. Ureaplasma urealyticum in the development of postpartum endometritis.. Chaim W, Horowitz S, David JB, Ingel F, Evinson B, Mazor M.. (Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol. 2003 Aug 15;109(2):145-8.)

Wan YY, Shi XY, Liu WJ, Bai S, Chen X, Li SY, Jiang XH, Wu LM, Zhang XS, Hua J.

Associations of Ureaplasma urealyticum infection with male infertility and intrauterine insemination outcomes.

Asian J Androl. 2025.

Koshimizu, K & Harasawa, Ryô & Pan, I.-J & Kotani, H & Ogata, M & Stephens, Edward & Barile, And.

Ureaplasma gallorale sp. nov. from the Oropharynx of Chickens.

InternInternational Journal of Systematic Bacteriology.ational Journal of Systematic Bacteriology. 1987.

Isabel Schober, Julia Koblitz, Joaquim Sardà Carbasse, Christian Ebeling, Marvin Leon Schmidt, Adam Podstawka, Rohit Gupta, Vinodh Ilangovan, Javad Chamanara, Jörg Overmann, Lorenz Christian Reimer

BacDive in 2025: the core database for prokaryotic strain data.

Nucleic Acids Research. 2025.

Kokkayil P, Dhawan B.

Ureaplasma: current perspectives.

Indian J Med Microbiol. 2015.

Kokkayil P, Dhawan B.

Ureaplasma: current perspectives.

Indian J Med Microbiol. 2015.

Kokkayil P, Dhawan B.

Ureaplasma: current perspectives.

Indian J Med Microbiol. 2015.

Kokkayil P, Dhawan B.

Ureaplasma: current perspectives.

Indian J Med Microbiol. 2015.

Kokkayil P, Dhawan B.

Ureaplasma: current perspectives.

Indian J Med Microbiol. 2015.

Kokkayil P, Dhawan B.

Ureaplasma: current perspectives.

Indian J Med Microbiol. 2015.

Perálvarez-Marín A, Baranowski E, Bierge P, Pich OQ, Lebrette H.

Metal utilization in genome-reduced bacteria: Do human mycoplasmas rely on iron?

Comput Struct Biotechnol J. 2021

Perálvarez-Marín A, Baranowski E, Bierge P, Pich OQ, Lebrette H.

Metal utilization in genome-reduced bacteria: Do human mycoplasmas rely on iron?

Comput Struct Biotechnol J. 2021

Perálvarez-Marín A, Baranowski E, Bierge P, Pich OQ, Lebrette H.

Metal utilization in genome-reduced bacteria: Do human mycoplasmas rely on iron?

Comput Struct Biotechnol J. 2021

Totten AH, Crawford CL, Dalecki AG, Xiao L, Wolschendorf F, Atkinson TP.

Differential Susceptibility of Mycoplasma and Ureaplasma Species to Compound-Enhanced Copper Toxicity

Front Microbiol. 2019

Perálvarez-Marín A, Baranowski E, Bierge P, Pich OQ, Lebrette H.

Metal utilization in genome-reduced bacteria: Do human mycoplasmas rely on iron?

Comput Struct Biotechnol J. 2021

Sarah S. Long, Charles G. Prober, Marc Fischer.

Ureaplasma urealyticum,

Principles and Practice of Pediatric Infectious Diseases (Fifth Edition), Elsevier, 2018

Totten AH, Crawford CL, Dalecki AG, Xiao L, Wolschendorf F, Atkinson TP.

Differential Susceptibility of Mycoplasma and Ureaplasma Species to Compound-Enhanced Copper Toxicity.

Front Microbiol. 2019

Kokkayil P, Dhawan B.

Ureaplasma: current perspectives.

Indian J Med Microbiol. 2015

Masover GK, Razin S, Hayflick L.

Localization of enzymes in Ureaplasma urealyticum (T-strain mycoplasma).

J Bacteriol. 1977

Colonetti T, Saggioratto MC, Grande AJ, Colonetti L, Junior JCD, Ceretta LB, Roever L, Silva FR, da Rosa MI.

Gut and Vaginal Microbiota in the Endometriosis: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Biomed Res Int. 2023

Colonetti T, Saggioratto MC, Grande AJ, Colonetti L, Junior JCD, Ceretta LB, Roever L, Silva FR, da Rosa MI.

Gut and Vaginal Microbiota in the Endometriosis: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Biomed Res Int. 2023

Waites KB.

Ureaplasma Infection: Practice Essentials, Background, Pathophysiology.

Medscape.com. Published November 14, 2022. Accessed June 9, 2025. ‌

Atanasievska, Sonja & Ristanovic, Elizabeta & Protic-Djokic, Vesna & Nenadic, Dane. (2022).

Association of bacterial vaginosis with the most common sexually transmitted infections.

Srpski arhiv za celokupno lekarstvo. (2022)

Chatwani A, Harmanli OH, Nyirjesy P, Reece EA.

Significance of genital mycoplasmas in pelvic inflammatory disease: innocent bystander!

Infect Dis Obstet Gynecol. 1996;4(5):263-8.

Kokkayil P, Dhawan B.

Ureaplasma: current perspectives.

Indian J Med Microbiol. 2015 Apr-Jun;33(2):205-14.

Sweeney EL, Kallapur SG, Gisslen T, Lambers DS, Chougnet CA, Stephenson SA, Jobe AH, Knox CL.

Placental Infection With Ureaplasma species Is Associated With Histologic Chorioamnionitis and Adverse Outcomes in Moderately Preterm and Late-Preterm Infants.

J Infect Dis. 2016 Apr 15;213(8):1340-7.

Kokkayil P, Dhawan B.

Ureaplasma: current perspectives.

Indian J Med Microbiol. 2015 Apr-Jun;33(2):205-14.

Chen X, Huang X, Zhou Q, Kang H, Qiu H, Shi L, Tang H, Zeng S.

Association between Ureaplasma urealyticum colonization and bronchopulmonary dysplasia in preterm infants: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Front Pediatr. 2024 Aug 8;12:1436568.

Ozdemır R, Sarı FN, Tunay ZO, Erdeve O, Canpolat FE, Oguz SS, Uras N, Dılmen U.

The association between respiratory tract Ureaplasma urealyticum colonization and severe retinopathy of prematurity in preterm infants ≤1250 g.

Eye (Lond). 2012 Jul;26(7):992-6.

Grenabo L, Hedelin H, Pettersson S.

Urinary infection stones caused by Ureaplasma urealyticum: a review.

Scand J Infect Dis Suppl. 1988;53:46-9

Chaim W, Horowitz S, David JB, Ingel F, Evinson B, Mazor M.

Ureaplasma urealyticum in the development of postpartum endometritis.

Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol. 2003 Aug 15;109(2):145-8.

Join the Roundtable

Contribute to published consensus reports, connect with top clinicians and researchers, and receive exclusive invitations to roundtable conferences.