The Distribution of Glutamic Acid Decarboxylase in the Family Enterobacteriaceae, examined by a Simple Chromatographic Method

Abstract

The presence of glutamic acid decarboxylase in cultures may be demonstrated by means of a chromatographic technic, using filter paper discs. The method is simple, may be effectively used for large munbers of cultures, and the results may be obtained in 2 days. Glutamic acid decarboxylase is widely and irregularly distributed in the family Enterobacteriaceae. The test may be of value in the classification of paracolon organisms, and of organisms related to members of the genus Salmonella.