Taxonomic and serologic studies on Micropolyspora faeni and Micropolyspora strains from soil bearing the specific...

The results of serological studies on six strains of Micropolyspora faeni from hay, sputum and plant debris, and five strains of Mip. rectivirgula from soil indicated no significant differences between the two species. Antisera raised in rabbits against purified antigens of the type strains were used to compare the 11 strains by immunoelectrophoresis. The detailed antigenic composition of the type strains was also determined by two-dimensional immunoelectrophoresis against specific rabbit antisera and pooled serum samples from patients suffering from farmer's lung. Cross-reacting antigens were identified by intermediate gel immunoelectrophoresis. The close similarity of the two species was confirmed by the results of 60 morphological physiological and biochemical tests applied to the 11 strains. We consider that the strains belong to a single species and propose that the specific epithet faeni be conserved for the taxon.