THE APPLICATION OF SEROLOGICAL METHODS TO THE DIFFERENTIATION OF CLOSELY RELATED SMUT FUNGI

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Abstract
Serological methods were applied in an attempt to differentiate a number of closely related members of the family Ustilaginaceae. The results of two series of reciprocal precipitin-ring tests showed that different genera and species of the same family were satisfactorily differentiated by this technique; so also were compatible cultures of the same species, where no detectable differences existed, other than the necessity of the haploid counterparts being brought together on the appropriate host plant to induce the diploid phase, and subsequent infection of the host. A parent culture and its mutant that were different morphologically but alike in their pathogenicity, were the only ones that could not be differentiated by this technique. Reciprocal absorption tests were applied to these two fungi, but the powder of either culture absorbed the antibodies of both from the immune sera. Optimal proportions of antigen and antibody were determined, but could not be applied in absorption tests because of the dilution of antisera. Agglutination tests were attempted but were unfruitful.

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