Abstract
WE have investigated the unsaponifiable fraction of cod-liver oil and found that it has a strong bacteriostatic effect; especially interesting is the fact that in vitro it suppresses growth of M. tuberculosis. The non-saponifiable matter was chromatographed over alumina, the fraction most firmly held having the strongest activity. This fraction was a viscous oil and did not contain sterols, vitamin A or vitamin D. Only hydroxylic compounds (probably chiefly unsaturated) were present, and among these α-glyceryl ethers were found. After hydrogenation the bacteriostatic effect decreased considerably. The fraction inhibited the growth of M. tuberculosis in concentrations of 1–3 µgm. per ml. Sauton medium.
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EMMERIE, A., ENGEL, C. & KLIP, W. Bacteriostatic Substances in the Unsaponifiable Fraction of Cod-liver Oil. Nature 166, 787 (1950). https://doi.org/10.1038/166787a0
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/166787a0
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