Studies on the histamine-sensitizing factor of Bordetella pertussis by density gradient centrifugation
The density gradient centrifugation of the histamine-sensitizing factor (HSF) of B. pertussis extracts in admixture with purified foreign proteins has revealed a property of the HSF not previously recognized. The HSF sedimentation was markedly accelerated in the presence of human serum macroglobulin and hog thyroglobulin. The absence of gross detectable changes in the protein profiles after the displacement of the HSF by sedimentation suggests the need for studies on the chemical composition of the HSF.The affinity of the HSF towards the foreign proteins, particularly those of large molecular size, has suggested a useful model by which the relationship of the HSF to other biological activities of B. pertussis may be studied.