THE CORRELATION OF A BIPHASIC METABOLIC RESPONSE WITH A BIPHASIC RESPONSE IN RESISTANCE TO TUBERCULOSIS IN RABBITS

Abstract

Aphase of susceptibility associated with a reduced metabolic activity was found on the part of peritoneal mononuclear phagocytes shortly after the administration of BCG. A second stage of heightened metabolic response occurs later and is associated with the usual resistance found after administration of BCG. The period of susceptibility after BCG vaccination is primarily to initiation of the infection, both groups show resistance to progression of the disease. These reactions are discussed with relation to non-specific protein therapy and endotoxin ad-ministration, which also have a similar biphasic effect on resistance. Conclusions are drawn that there is a relationship between the level of certain metabolic activities of mononuclear phagocytes and resistance to tuberculosis.