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. 1975 Sep;12(3):586–591. doi: 10.1128/iai.12.3.586-591.1975

Cross-reactions of Streptococcus mutans due to cell wall teichoic acid.

F W Chorpenning, H R Cooper, S Rosen
PMCID: PMC415327  PMID: 809357

Abstract

Antisera to the whole cells of Streptococcus mutans cross-reacted with antigen extracts from four other gram-positive species, as well as with those of three other oral streptococci. Similarly, antisera to these bacteria cross-reacted with extracts from S. mutans and with those from each other. Using a purified phenol extract of the walls of S. mutans, which was identified by chemical, immunochemical, and enzymatic analyses as glycerol teichoic acid, the cross-reactions were shown to be specific for a determinant of the teichoic acid backbone. Results were confirmed in immunodiffusion tests where clear bands of identify were shown. These observations point out the need for caution in sereological research empolying extracts of gram-positive bacteria and may be of interest in investigations of periodontal disease.

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Selected References

These references are in PubMed. This may not be the complete list of references from this article.

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