The Bacteriophages of Pseudomonas pyocyanea: 1. The Effect of Various Substances upon their Development

Abstract

Bacteriophages were isolated from several strains of P. pyocyanea and were assayed against an indicator strain. Counts of up to 1010 ml. were obtained in both broth and a defined medium. The phages are stable at 60[degree] but rapidly inactivated at 65[degree]. They are unaffected by 50% glycerol and are stable at pH 6.5-10 but not below 6.5. About 500 compounds have been tested for their inhibitory action on the development of these bacteriophages. All the sulfonamides, ami-dines, pyrimidines, organometallic compounds, plant extracts, mold cultures and antibiotics tested were inactive at concns. permitting growth of the host. Proflavine exerted a virustatic effect while notatin and H2O2 were lethal in a defined medium but not in broth.