The International Research Programme on Comparative Mycoplasmology (IRPCM) is a permanent standing committee of the International Organization for Mycoplasmology. Its objective as defined in the Constitution is to advance and disseminate knowledge on all aspects of mycoplasmas (members of the taxonomic class Mollicutes). In furtherance of this objective, the program shall aim to encourage individual and collaborative studies, including the effective exchange of scientific information, to reach this goal. Specifically, this will include:

• Developing a more complete understanding of the cellular and molecular biology of mycoplasmas, including those features that may be unique in the prokaryotic world to mycoplasmas
• Elucidation of the diversity of mycoplasmas
• Defining virulence factors of mycoplasmas pathogenic to humans, domestic and wild animals, and plants
• Identifying more effective means of diagnosis, prevention, and control of mycoplasma infections and disease

Originally the Programme was organized to work in parallel with the International Subcommittee on the Taxonomy of Mollicutes within the IOM and the Working Teams were concerned mainly with identification and characterization of the Mollicutes. However, more recently, increasing effort has been directed towards understanding pathogenesis of diseases associated with Mollicutes and working towards the control of infections.

The main Programme objective is to foster international scientific relationships and exchange of scientific information, strains, and reagents. In addition, the IRPCM regroups international experts in all fields related to mycoplasmas.

• If you have any suggestion for IRPCM, please contact the Chair: Chih-Horng Kuo
• If you would like to join any of the IRPCM teams, please contact the Team Leaders directly.