[long dash]An extract of cells of Bacillus subtilis was prepared by heating cells for 15-20 minutes at 100[degree]C. Addition of the extract to a suspension of B. subtilis supplemented with polyethylene glycol (PEG) increases formation of amylase under aerobic conditions. PEG-fortified cell-free preparations and unfortified protoplast preparations (obtained by lysozyme action) showed activity even under anaerobic conditions.