Peroxide Production by Type 3 Strains of Group A Beta Hemolytic Streptococci

Conclusions

These results demonstrate that Type 3 hemolytic streptococci produce peroxide under conditions determined by certain variability factors. This is also true of some other type strains. In manner of origin and in subsequent cultural behavior these peroxide-positive variants resemble the lactose-positive variants of B. coli mutabile. Peroxide formation by Type 3 strains was predicted by Mellon, 6 who believed its apparent absence was due to temporary suppression of a special “growth phase” possessing this function. Whether suppression of peroxide formation in the white colonies is complete, or reduced to a degree not detectable by the present methods, remains a question.