The specificity of cellular immunity

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Abstract
1. Non-specific stimulation of mice by a detergent lacking in vitro antibacterial activity, Triton WR 1339, produces a steady state in the course of experimental tuberculosis at about the same level as specific immunization, and does so independently of delayed allergy.2. This effect is achieved in a much shorter time than is required by the normal immunological processes and the relative duration of enhanced resistance in each case is yet to be worked out.3. Triton fails to enhance an existing, specifically acquired immunity.4. There is no evidence so far that the mechanism involved is the same in both instances. If it were found to be the same, then the present concept of a specific cellular immunity would need to be revised.