Mutation of Coagulase Negative Staphylococcus in the Presence of Human Serum

Abstract

The Staphylococcus that Pasteur observed in 1880 has until recently been referred to in the literature as Micrococcus pyogenes. In the Seventh Edition of Bergey's Manual this organism has been reclassified into two major species which are concerned with nam. The species, both of which are involved in this research project, are: | (1) Staphylococcus apedermidis which is considered to be a non-pathogenic form. It is a normal inhabitant of the skin and mucosa of man. | (2) Staphylococcous aureus which is considered to be a pathogenic form. It is also a possible normal inhabitant of the skin and mucosa of man. This species is capable of causing inflammation and necrosis throughout the human body. | The study of this organism and its ability to continually exist as an origin of infection is still under exploration. The factors which influence the ability of the Staphylococci to adapt, transform and mutate are still being investigated. The discussion to follow concerns the mutative potential of normal flora staphylococci in the presence of selected environments.