Immunochemical Investigations of Cell Surface Antigens of Anaerobic Bacteria.
Abstract
Three groups of rats were immunized i.m. with the capsular polysaccharide (sss) of Bacteroides fragilis ss. fragilis (B.F.F.) alone, or with adjuvant (MBSA + complete Freund's), or as part of the intact outer membrane (o.m.) of these bacteria. Protection correlated with the level of anti-sss antibody measured in a quantitative radioactive binding assay. These studies demonstrated that significant protection can be afforded against abscess development due to B. fragilis strains by immunization with the capsular polysaccharide of B.F.F. and that protection can be enhanced either with adjuvants or the adjuvant effect of the outer membrane (p < .05). The ability of the encapsulated species, B. fragilis to adhere to rat peritoneal mesothelium was compared to the adherence of unencapsulated strains of Bacteroides. It was found that B. fragilis adhered significantly better to mesothelial tissue than unencapsulated species of Bacteroides. Rats immunized with the capsular polysaccharide did not demonstrate decreased adherence; however, pre-incubation of the wells with purified capsular polysaccharide resulted in a substantial reduction in adherence. These results indicate that B. fragilis adheres to rat peritoneal mesothelium better than unencapsulated species and suggests that the capsular polysaccharide of B. fragilis plays some role in this increased adherence.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 15, 1977
- Accession Number
- ADA051831
Entities
People
- Dennis L Kasper
Organizations
- Harvard Medical School