Assuming that B. anthracis might possibly be related to B. cereus an investigation was undertaken to compare the activities of proteolytic enzymes in both germs. As substrates, 18 different human plasma proteins were used. Their behaviour was studied with the appropriate monovalent antisera by immunoelectrophoresis. The pattern of protein alterations was nearly the same in B. anthracis as compared to that of B. cereus. Both organisms caused alterations in α1-lipoprotein, β- Mipoprotein, α2HS-glycoprotein, hemopexin, and fibrinogen. Furthermore, the action of B. cereus led to IgA alteration and one strain even altered haptoglobin and transferrin. β2-Glycoρrotein-I was regularly disintegrated by B. cereus while with B. anthracis this effect could only be demonstrated after an animal passage. Therefore, the enzymatic activity of B. anthracis seems to be augmented by the intensifying effect animal passages have on virulence. The proteolytic activity of B. anthracis is discussed as a component of its pathogenicity.

Keywords:
Bacillus anthracis, Bacillus cereus, Proteolytic activity, Immunoelectrophoresis
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© 1973 S. Karger AG, Basel
1973
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