Gel Diffusion Studies on Serotype and Serotype Transformation in Paramecium

SUMMARY: Antigens G and E of stock 28 variety 2 of Paramecium, aurelia show cross-reactions with their respective antisera in immobilization and gel diffusion tests. In immobilization tests the anti-E serum P, no. 132, shows the strongest cross-reaction; in gel diffusion tests the anti-G serum P, no. 130, cross reacts more strongly. During serotype transformation of type G protozoa to type E, the increase of the E antigen and the disappearance of the G antigen were followed by the gel diffusion technique. However, because of the peculiar cross-reactions of these two antigens, only the increase of the new (E) antigen was studied quantitatively by this technique. No reliable measurements of the loss of the old (G) antigen were obtained. The results indicate that during transformation the amount of the new antigen increased exponentially.