Antigenic evaluation of mycobacterium vaccae in relation to Mycobacterium leprae.

Immunodiffusion analysis of Mycobacterium vaccae indicated the presence of at least nine antigens. Using the technique of fused rocket immunoelectrophoresis, at least 13 such antigens were detected. Comparative analysis of the M. vaccae antigen-antibody system with similar systems established for other mycobacterial species showed that M. vaccae shared a significant number of antigens with both typical and atypical mycobacteria. These included the already described beta and delta antigens that are common to the majority of mycobacterial species. Confirmation of the presence of these two antigens was obtained through comparative analysis of sera from leprosy patients, using M. vaccae and M. smegmatis conjointly. It has been concluded that M. vaccae possess the two most commonly shared antigens among various mycobacterial species, in addition to many others. It has not been possible with the methods employed to establish any particularly close immunological relationship between M. vaccae and M. leprae that would indicate the use of M. vaccae as a possible antileprosy vaccine source although this possibility has been suggested by other investigators.