Preparation of biologically active components of Mycobacterium bovis, using Triton X-100 or potassium chloride.

Methods of producing antigen extracts of Mycobacterium bovis are described. Extraction of M bovis with a chaotropic salt, potassium chloride, or a nonionic detergent, Triton X-100, before autoclaving resulted in the production of soluble M bovis components. These antigens induced delayed-type hypersensitivity responses when injected intradermally in M bovis-sensitized guinea pigs. A comparison of the diameters of the hypersensitivity responses (on the basis of equal protein concentrations in the inocula) revealed that the potassium chloride extract and the Triton extract of M bovis induced similar responses compared to the response induced with a purified protein derivative of M bovis. These findings indicate alternative methods may be used for the production of biologically active extracts of M bovis.