THE EFFECT OF FATTY ACIDS ON THE OXYGEN UPTAKE OF BLASTOMYCES DERMATITIDIS

Abstract

The O2 consumption of 2 strains of B. dermatitidis in the presence of several fatty acids was detd. All of the acids from acetic through caprylic stimulated O2 uptake. Acids with longer carbon chains than caprylic acid inhibited O2 consumption. Increased numbers of double bonds, as in oleic and linoleic acids, has no effect on the inhibition of O2 uptake. Propionic and caprylic acids which inhibit growth of the dermatophytes, stimulate O2 consumption of the fungus in the concns. used.