The invention is in the field of growth of Mycobacteria. In particular, agents have been identified which enhance the growth of Mycobacterial species, which are naturally slow-growing. Such agents can therefore be used in the identification of Mycobacteria and in the diagnosis of Mycobacterial infections.
Cationic bacteriocin and lantibiotic peptides are provided and their immunomodulatory activities are described. Methods are provided for selectively enhancing innate immunity. Other methods are provided for selectively suppressing a proinflammatory response. Other methods are provided for identifying a compound or compounds which modulate an innate immune response. Pharmaceutical compositions comprising the cationic bacteriocin and lantibiotic peptides or polynucleotides are also provided.