Multiplication of Mycobacterium lepraemurium in Cell-free Liquid Medium

In order to improve the NC-5 medium, the Dubos medium (pH 7.3) was used as a basal medium, instead of Kirchner medium. The complete medium thus prepared is referred to as ND-5 medium. In this medium, Mycobacterium lepraemurium quickly multiplies in the form of binary fission without an extraordinary elongation. Possible generation times could be calculated by repeated experiments as 1.4-2.6 days. A slightly degenerative changes in the cells during prolonged cultivation was observed by electron microscopy. This medium has some advantages for inhibiting other bacterial contaminations. Serial subcultivation is not tested yet.