[Protective properties of M. lufu in experimental leprosy].

A protective potential of M. lufu against experimental lepra was studied in mice infected with M. leprae according to Shepard. 5 and 9 months after the inoculation quantitation of the causative agent in the animals' paws indicated a protective action of M. lufu which exceeded that of BCG, M. vaccae and M. leprae. High protective activity of M. lufu is due both to its antigenic composition similarity with M. leprae and influence on immune response regulation. It is suggested to use M. lufu for design of highly effective antilepra vaccine.