Co-operative Research Study on Bacterial Surface Molecules and Bioresponse Modifying Activities in Host Animals.

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According to the initial plannings, we have investigated on the structure-bioresponse modifying activities of the surface molecules of gram-positive, gram-negative and acid-fast bacteria. In gram-negative bacteria, porin subunit structure which is related to the permeability of the outer membrane was investigated and the properties especially of Pseudomonas and Alcaligenes species were demonstrated by Nakae et al. In acid-fast bacteria, the fine molecular structure of mycolic acids and mycoloyl glycolipids such as cord factor. Since it has been known that these characteristic glycolipids possessed unique activities, the essential structure for immunomodifying activities was investigated in host animals. Related to this acid-fast bacteria, a new amphipatic fraction resembling to gram-negative LPS was isolated by Tamura. This fraction showed similar activities to the gram-negtive endotoxin, but less toxic. Since we have no information available about such gram-positive endotoxin, the structure analysis and mechanism of action on host animals would be greatly expected in future. Also recently, the heterogeneity of structure and activity of gram-negative LPS. Takada et al investigated on various less toxic gram-negative LPS isolated from anaerobic bacteria. In gram-positive bacteria, teichoic acids (membrane- and wall teichoic acids) are one of the characteristic components. Kato et al reported the isolation and characterization of less toxic LTA which can generate a non-toxic TNF. Activities of LTA on host animals should be more investigated in future. Exotoxin production and its secretion from the bacterial cells were also investigated especially with enterotoxigenic E. Coli and Vibrio parahaemolyticus. Fine structure analysis of gram-poam-positive bacteria was investigated by using electronmicroscopy by Amako and Kawata et al.We hope further development and progress of all the above projects in future and financial support from GRANT-IN-AID FOR SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH.