The bactericidal Properties of Excretions of the Maggot ofLucilia sericata

Abstract

The excretions of the blowfly maggot,Lucilia sericata, have been found to contain a potent bactericide, and the technique for the collection of this material is given. There is evidence that other insects besides the one investigated may also produce this substance.The active principle is not destroyed by autoclaving at 10 pounds' pressure for 20 minutes and desiccation does not inactivate it.The bactericidal action of the substance was demonstrated by tests on seven species of bacteria, most of which are of aetiological importance in osteomyelitis and other suppurative infections. The lethal action against such organisms seems to be an important factor in the good results obtained with maggot therapy.The work seems to open a field in which interesting investigations could be conducted with possibilities of producing other new and useful disinfectants from living organisms.