LYSIS FROM WITHOUT OF S. AUREUS K1 BY THE COMBINED ACTION OF PHAGE AND VIROLYSIN

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Abstract
Lysis from without (LFW) occurs in two steps (1) sensitization of cells by phage, which renders the cells susceptible to (2) destruction of an essential cell structure by an extracellular lytic enzyme. Virolysin, from phage-infected cells, was used in these studies. Normal cell autolysin is also effective. Evidence is presented that: (1) neither phage nor lysin alone causes LFW; (2) sensitization requires phage adsorption; (3) it can be caused by non-infectious particles. This establishes a new biological activity of the particle; (4) heat, U.V., detergents, penicillin, and other damaging agents also sensitize cells; (5) sensitization involves a non-lethal, reversible reaction; (6) sensitization by phage prevents virus synthesis. Following adsorption, a cell can undergo sensitization or infection but not simultaneously. When only a few particles are adsorbed, infection can occur; when sufficient particles are adsorbed, sensitization takes place. (7) quantitative aspects of LFW are described. Lysis proceeds logarithmically. The lysis end-point depends upon the phage concentration but is independent of the enzyme concentration.

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