Clear, defined medium for the sporulation of Clostridium perfringens

Abstract

A new, defined medium for the sporulation of Clostridium perfringens is presented. Sporulation levels exceeding 106 to 107 heat-resistant spores per ml were obtained for seven strains: PS49, PS52, FD-1, T-65, NCTC strains 8798, 8238, and 10240. In the presence of theophylline, a methylxanthine, higher levels of heat-resistant spores were attained for strains PS49, PS52, FD-1, and T-65; photomicrographs demonstrated a higher fraction of sporulating cells when these strains were grown in the presence of methylxanthines. Use of washed, highly diluted (<100 cells) inocula resulted in no reduction in spore yield. Strain KA3 grew well but sporulated poorly on this medium. The medium was clear and free of precipitate when small amounts (100 μg/ml) of methylxanthine were incorporated.