ROLE OF CALCIUM AND RELATED IONS IN PROLIFERATION OF LACTIC STREPTOCOCCUS BACTERIOPHAGE, ,

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Abstract
Lactic streptococcus bacteriophages do not multiply on actively growing host cells in a Ca-deficient medium unless Ca is added. Sr, Ba, or Mg ions will replace Ca but at an equivalent concn. are less effective. Using one step growth and single infected cell techniques the function of these ions appears to be in bacteriophage invasion, that is, penetration or steps leading to penetration of host cells after adsorption has occurred. Several other cations will not replace Ca or act as inhibitors of Ca action. Ma or cobaltous ions, ineffective themselves, appear stimulatory when combined with low levels of Ca. This appears to be due to a sparing action for Ca. The nature of the invasive process is discussed in light of the data and recent reports on the relationship between Ca and bacteriophage multiplication.