Isolation of transmissible enteritis agent of turkeys in avian embryos

The transmissible enteritis agent was propagated by inoculating the amniotic sacs of turkey embryos older than 15 days and of chicken embryos older than 16 days. The presence of the agent could be recognized in turkey embryos histologically by excess goblet cells and cellular degeneration in the intestine. Titers of 107infective doses per ml were obtained in the yolk of turkey embryos, with lesser titers in the intestine and other organs. Titers in chicken embryos were 102or 103, with the titer decreasing upon continuing passage. The turkey embryo was as sensitive to infection as the turkey poult.