Treponemal Antigens as Related to Identification and Syphilis Serology

Abstract

1. The antigens of intact T.p., the R.t., T.m. and the free-living mud organism, T.z., are compared. 2. An antigen appearing to be identical to the Reiter Protein antigen was found to be a common or shared component in all of the treponemes studied. 3. By means of absorption or blocking procedures and employing FA methods, all treponemes could be identified. 4. It is suggested that FA methods can play an important part in future taxonomic studies of treponemes and that the FTA test can be modified so as to increase both sensitivity and specificity.