Partial purification and characterization of the bone resorption factor fromActinomyces viscosus

The bone resorptive factor and amphipathic antigen (AcA) previously identified by us in preparations fromActinomyces viscosus have been partially purified, characterized chemically, and compared. They elute at the same location on chromatography with Ac 22. The fatty acid composition of AcA and the bone resorptive factor is the same. Some differences in carbohydrate composition are observed. TheActinomyces factor does not affect calcium influx or cyclic AMP in isolated bone cells. Therefore it is concluded that AcA stimulates resorption either by gaining entrance into bone cells or by way of a yet undetermined second messenger.