Autoradiography of colonies of mycobacteria on membrane filters. Effect of tuberculostatics on incorporation of radioactive phosphorus.

A technique for the autoradiography of colonies of mycobacteria on membrane filters has been evolved. The method enables studies on the effect of various factors on the incorporation of radioisotopes by mycobacteria. In this study the effect of INH, SM and RMP on the incorporation of 32P by mycobacteria cultivated in the form of microcolonies on membrane filters was examined. 30 minute incubation of Myc. phlei or 10 hour incubation of Myc. H37Ra with these drugs caused visible inhibition of 32P incorporation by drug-sensitive mycobacteria.