GERMINATION OF BACTERIAL SPORES WITH ALKYL PRIMARY AMINES

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Abstract
Several [image]-alkyl primary amines with C chain lengths of 7 or more C atoms caused a marked reduction in the optical density of suspensions of spores of several species of Bacillus n-Dodecyl-amine was studied in detail in its action on spores of B. megaterium. In the absence of a preheating, of alanine and inosine, and of any other organic substances, [image]-dodecylamine at neutral pH values and at temperatures from 37 to 70[degree]C also causes several other changes. The spores lose retractility, become stainable with gentian violet, and discharge practically all of their dipicolinic acid and mucopeptide and most of their Ca. They also oxidize glucose and become sensitive to a variety of physical and chemical stresses. The heat-sensitive spores resulting from the action of [image]-dodecylamine on ungerminated heat-resistant spores were viable and produced colonies on nutrient agar. These spores are similar to germinated spores. The concepts of chemical germination and physiological germination are discussed. Possible mechanisms of action of the alkyl primary amines are presented in relation to the nature .of the ungerminated spore.