The hydrolytic degradation of the antigenic complex of Bact. typhosum Ty 2

Abstract

The Eberthella typhosa Ty2 antigen has been shown, by acetic acid hydrolysis, to consist of: a polysaccharide component (50-60%), an insoluble polypeptide (about 16%), a soluble nitrogenous component (10-20%), and a lipid component (3-4%). The polysaccharide represents the O-specific hapten of the antigen; it has a reducing value on hydrolysis of 83% (as apparent glucose) and is dextrorotatory ([a]D20O = + 114[degree]). It appears to be free from ketose, pentose and uronic acid residues but yields d-galactose, d-mannose and d-glucose on hydrolysis. An identical polysaccharide has been prepd. directly from dried E. typhosa Ty2 by extraction with dilute acetic acid. The polypeptide component is soluble in dilute alkalis, contains 8.2% N partly in the form of tyrosine and arginine units and about 50% of the total N is liberated as amino-groups on acid hydrolysis. The antigen of E. typhosa Ty2 is resistant to tryptic digestion.