A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF ANTHRAX BACTERIOPHAGES
Abstract
A study of the morphology of negative colonies of various anthrax bacteriophages showed that according to morphology the negative colonies of anthrax bacteriophages included all the known types described in other bacteriophages. On the basis of the study of the antigenic properties the anthrax bacteriophages can be divided into two groups: the gamma (Brown and Cherry) and BA-9 (Moldavian Institute of Epidemiology and Hygiene) bacteriophages should be classed in one group; in the other group -- the alpha C, beta(McCloy), L7 (Stamatin) and Saratov bacteriophages. Separation of the anthrax bacteriophages studied into two groups corresponded to their lytic properties. Phages belonging to the first group had a wider lytic spectrum, not only with respect to homologous microorganisms but also with respect to Bac. cereus. For the purpose of increasing the specificity of the phagolysis test for identification of anthrax cultures one should at present simultaneously use anthrax bacteriophages belonging to different antigen groups, for example BA-9 gamma and Saratov, or gamma and alpha C bacteriophages.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 11, 1968
- Accession Number
- AD0678187
Entities
People
- E. N. Levina
- V. R. Arkhipova
Organizations
- United States Army Biological Warfare Laboratories