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Investigating the Effects of Probiotics on Pneumococcal Colonization Using an In Vitro Adherence Assay
Published on: April 28, 2014
THE FATE OF ORALLY ADMINISTERED SOLUBLE SPECIFIC SUBSTANCE OF PNEUMOCOCCUS TYPES I, II AND III
1Department of Biological Chemistry, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, and the Bureau of Laboratories, Department of Health of the City of New York, New York.
Rats excrete large amounts of pneumococcus substances in feces after ingestion. These substances remain immunologically active, indicating no significant loss of potency during excretion.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Microbiology
Background:
- Pneumococcus is a bacterium that causes various infections.
- Specific soluble substances (polysaccharides) are key components of pneumococcus serotypes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the fate of ingested pneumococcal soluble substances in rats.
- To assess the immunogenic activity of pneumococcal polysaccharides after oral administration and fecal excretion.
Main Methods:
- Rats were fed soluble specific substances of Types I, II, and III pneumococcus.
- Serum and urine were tested for the presence of these substances using highly sensitive assays.
- Immunological activity of fecal-recovered Type I polysaccharide was evaluated.
Main Results:
- A large proportion of ingested pneumococcal substances were excreted in rat feces.
- Highly sensitive tests for serum and urine were negative, suggesting minimal absorption.
- Type I polysaccharide recovered from feces retained its original immunizing potency.
Conclusions:
- Oral administration of pneumococcal soluble substances leads to significant fecal excretion in rats.
- These substances are poorly absorbed into the bloodstream or detected in urine.
- The immunogenic properties of pneumococcal polysaccharides are preserved after passage through the digestive tract.
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