Selected characteristics of pathogenic and nonpathogenic strains of Bacteroides gingivalis

Abstract

Strains of Bacteroides gingivalis were compared for the presence of properties associated with pathogenicity. Some strains were infectious in pure culture in an in vivo model (guinea pig), and all but one of these were more collagenolytic than those which failed to cause lesions in guinea pigs. However, other factors seem to be necessary for the induction of an infection in this animal model.