Draining lymph node enlargement produced by immunogenic strains of cultivable mycobacteria

Lymphnode enlargement produced by strains of mycobacteria have a direct bearing on the immunogenicity characteristics. Two strains of mycobacteria namely M. habana TMC 5135 and M. marinum (SATO) have been studied for their property to produce enlargement of draining lymphnodes besides other cell-mediated immune responses. Both the strains are capable of producing the enlargements of inguinal and popliteal lymphnodes which is very significant. The enlargements of lymphnodes have been produced by these strains both in the live as well as killed state. Possibility of developing these strains as vaccine against leprosy has been discussed.