Published online by Cambridge University Press: 15 May 2009
1. Coliform and paracolon β strains agglutinated to a high titre with OB antisera from two strains of Escherichia coli O111B4H2.
2. The presence of β antigen in some strains of Esch. coli O111B4H2 has been shown and therefore such strains should be classified as plus β forms. This factor could not be demonstrated by agglutination tests but was evident by its ability to produce and absorb β antibodies.
3. The dissociation and complex nature of β forms was discussed.
The writer wishes to express her thanks to Prof. S. D. Rubbo for his helpful criticism of the manuscript.