[The immunogenic and protective properties of the cell wall proteins of Listeria monocytogenes].

Two protein antigens with molecular weights of 58 kD (antigen Lm58) and 79/39 kD (antigen Lm79/ 39) were isolated from Listeria monocytogenes cell wall. Only Lm79/39 was shown to protect mice from L. monocytogenes infection, increasing their LD50 and survival time. The protective activity of Lm79/39 correlated (r = 0.64) with its mitogenic properties and its capacity for activating the production of interleukin-1- and interleukin-2-like factors. More over Lm79/ 39 induced more strong than Lm58 specific lymphocyte proliferation. The two antigens had practically no difference in their capacity for cytotoxic cell activation. The protective activity of Lm79/39 is probably linked with its immunomodulating properties, which opens a perspective for its use as a component of an antilisteriosis vaccine.