Chemical and immunological investigations on enterococci.

Serological and chemical methods were used to study the antigenic constituents of enterococci. Lancefield and Fuller extracts of eight enterococcus strains, representing four species, were investigated in double diffusion in agar for antigenic pattern and relationship. Cell fractions of S. faecalis were examined for antigenic components by latex agglutination, passive hem agglutination and double diffusion. A group specific antigen was demonstrated in a cytoplasmic fraction. The isolated and partially purified antigen was analyzed chromatographically and electrophoretically. Cell wall components of representative strains were isolated by different methods and analyzed serologically and by paper and thin layer chromatography. Hexosamine, D(+) glucose and L(+) rhamnose were identified. The amino acid composition varied but DL alpha alanine was consistently present. A peptide consisting of seven amino acids was demonstrated. Immunoelectrophoretic analysis of such extracts appeared promising. Separation of components by gel filtration was unsuccessful. The G+C percentage composition of the strains was determined in cesium chloride density gradient