The action of lysozyme on the cell wall and capsule of Bacillus megatherium.

Observations concerning the action of lysozyme on Bacillus megaterium have been suggestive, although not conclusive, in indicating that the bacterial cell wall is lysed (Welshimer and Robinow, 1949). Recently Tomesik and GuexHolzer (1952) have supported this contention by a combination of immuno-chemical procedures and phase contrast microscopy. In the experimental work here reported, a different approach has been made toward demonstrating the action of lysozyme on the external structure of the bacillus.