The conglutination phenomenon. XIII. In vivo interactions of conglutinin and experimental bacterial infection.

Abstract

Some interrelations between the conglutinating activity of the serum of an animal and experimental bacterial infection were investigated. The passive transfer of conglutinating activity was demonstrated. The level of this activity reaches a peak within 2 days after subcutaneous injection, then declines until no significant titres are demonstrable in 12 to 14 days. It is shown that infection of animals with Salmonella typhimurium causes a rapid reduction in the conglutinating activity of the serum immediately after challenge. Evidence is presented which indicates that the previous injection of conglutinin preparations enhances bactericidal activity of the mouse against Salm. typhimurium.