Studies on the Mechanism of Protodyne-Induced Protection against Microbial Infections

SummaryProtodyne, a high molecular weight proteinaceous material derived from the protoplasm of gram-negative bacteria, increases resistance to infection in mice whether given by the intraperitoneal or intravenous routes. It thus differs from bovine serum albumin which increases nonspecific resistance to infections only if given intraperitoneally, presumably by setting up local inflammatory reactions in the peritoneal cavity. BSA, even if given intraperitoneally, is ineffective in rapidly lethal streptococcal infections in which protodyne has good protective action. Protodyne is also effective in Columbia SK infections while BSA is not.