Bicomponent Nature of Lysin from Streptococcus zymogenes

Nonlytic mutants of Streptococcus zymogenes X-14 were isolated after exposure to nitrosoguanidine. Cross-streaking of certain of these mutants on brain Heart Infusion (BHI) blood agar plates resulted in formation of spur-shaped zones of hemolysis at the junction of the two streaks. Two types of mutants were recognized. Both of these excreted into the medium substances which are nonlytic but which together produce lytic activity. These substances behaved as an enzyme with an activator. Hence, one mutant type appeared to produce an activator and the other the catalytic molecule. Active complexes were temperature-sensitive and were inhibited by some teichoic acids as is the parental type of lysin.