Composition analysis of B. burgdorferi indicates the distinction between the different pleomorphic forms and presents atypical cell wall characteristics. Live spirochaetes, blebs observed in normal culture conditions, 2 h H2O RBs and BFL aggregates in suspension as well as 24 h doxycycline-treated damaged cells were stained with PI, WGA conjugated with Alexa 555 (WGA 555) and BODIPY to indicate DNA, polysaccharides and lipids. Acid fuchsin was used for methanol-fixed cells to stain collagen. Upper panel visualizes the cells imaged with confocal laser scanning microscopy. Lower panel represents the morphology of the cells with DIC. Bars, 5 µm.