The Toxicity of Meningopneumonitis Organisms (Chlamydia Psittaci) at Different Stages of Development

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Abstract
Intact elementary bodies of Chlamydia psittaci are toxic for mice and will absorb antitoxin from hyperimmune serum. The intermediate reticulate form of the organism, however, is non-toxic and does not absorb antitoxin. It appears likely that soon after penetration of the susceptible cell, the organism loses the toxic antigen from its envelope, the antigen is missing during multiplication, and is resynthesized at maturation.