Morphological Diversity of Isolated Mycobacterial Cultures in the Republic of Kazakhstan: Implications for Diagnostics and Treatment

Abstract

The study of mycobacterial morphology in the Republic of Kazakhstan is relevant due to the increasing burden of tuberculosis and other mycobacterial diseases. The aim of this study was to comprehensively describe the morphological characteristics of different mycobacterial species identified in Kazakhstan, which will help to improve diagnostic methods and develop new approaches to treatment. Comparative and cross-cultural analyses were conducted by synthesizing data from multiple international and local studies to identify species-specific variations in growth rates, colony morphology, pigmentation, and temperature preferences. A systematic literature review and meta-analysis were conducted to synthesize various findings and examine theoretical viewpoints on the influence of environmental variables on mycobacterial morphology. The results demonstrate that slow-growing species, such as Mycobacterium tuberculosis, need 3-8 weeks for detectable colony development at 37°C, whereas fast-growing species, such as Mycobacterium abscessus, establish colonies within 2-5 days at comparable temperatures. Moreover, environmental adaptation is apparent, as Mycobacterium marinum flourishes at 30°C, in contrast to infections acclimated to humans. These results possess considerable diagnostic and therapeutic implications. Identifying temperature-dependent growth patterns might enhance the adjustment of culture conditions for a precise diagnosis, thereby reducing delays in the detection of slow-growing infections. Moreover, understanding colony shape and color changes improves species distinction, potentially minimizing misdiagnosis. The study offers a systematic approach that might enhance treatment tactics by taking into account species-specific growth traits when choosing antimicrobial medicines, especially in the fight against drug-resistant mycobacteria. The practical significance of the study is to provide an important database for the development of new antimicrobial agents targeting specific morphological and physiological characteristics of mycobacteria. This is particularly important in light of the growing problem of drug resistance among mycobacteria, which requires new approaches to therapy.