Effect of temperature, cholesterol and nerve tissue on multiplication of armadillo M. leprae.

The effect of temperature, nerve tissue and certain constituents of the medium on multiplication of armadillo M. leprae was studied using Hanks BSS. An equal or better growth was seen at 30 degrees C and 10 degrees C compared to 37 degrees C. Multiplication was also seen at -20 degrees C. Adding cholesterol, foetal calf serum, cystine-HCl, sodium thioglycollate or nerve suspension and covering medium with liquid paraffin each showed beneficial effect. Hanks containing foetal calf serum, cholesterol with sodium thioglycollate or cystine-hydrochloride showed maximum multiplication. These combinations may be used for testing additional factors for further improvement of the medium.