Chemical Detoxification of Flexner Dysentery Antigen

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Abstract
A method of growing Shigella paradysenteriae rapidly in high conc. to obtain large amts. for chemical studies was developed. By this means, in 21/2-3 hrs. an increase of 60- to 80-fold in growth rate and an increase in numbers of organisms of 8- to 10-fold occur, as compared with results obtained after 18-20 hrs. by usual methods. Both smooth and rough strains respond well and the antigen content of S strains is not diminished. The method, which may be used continuously or for successive batches of organisms, is very sensitive to alterations in the conditions of growth. It involves shaking two 6-liter Florence flasks mounted on a platform. There is a stop-cock in the bottom of each and in the necks tubing is fitted for passage of sterile air over the surface of the agitated culture medium. Growth curves were characterized by using inde- pendent measurements, consisting of turbidity readings on a colorimeter, numbers of live organisms, and wt. of dried bacteria. Mass increases 3-fold and numbers 30-fold during the shaking period.

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