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MICROGEN LISTERIA ID NOW APPROVED FOR MARKS AND SPENCER PRODUCT TESTING

Microgen Bioproducts has received confirmation that the AOAC approved and CMMAS evaluated and approved Microgen Listeria-ID (MID-67), will be included in the updated Marks and Spencer Microbiological Methods Manual this summer, meaning the test can be used for the testing of Marks and Spencer products.

Microgen Listeria-ID is a miniaturised biochemical test system compromising Aesculin hydrolysis, 10 sugar fermentation tests and a highly sensitive and accurate micro haemolysis reaction, replacing the conventional CAMP test required for the differentiation of important pathogenic species of Listeria from non-pathogenic species.

The use of the Microgen Listeria-ID eliminates the need to sub-culture from selective media and the need for a separate haemolysis plate saving 24 hours on conventional methods.

As with all of the Microgen ID range, the Microgen Identification System Software, provides laboratories with the easiest-to-use and most accurate identification package.

The Microgen ID range includes tests for:

•  Gram Negative Bacili, including the full range of Enterobacteriacea, and a range of oxidase positive Gram-Negative Bacili.

•  Streptococci, Enterococci and related species of clinical, animal health, food and environmental importance.

•  Staphylococci of clinical, animal health and environmental importance.

•  Mesophilic Bacillus species and related genera associated with food poisoning and food spoilage.

NEW HCV SCREENING AND CONFIRMATION KITS AVAILABLE

Microgen Bioproducts has released an Enzyme Immunoassay (screening assay) and a Line Immunoassay (confirmation assay) for the detection and confirmation of Hepatitis C Virus (HCV), offering a comprehensive and flexible HCV diagnosis package:

INNOTEST TM HCV: Screening Assay (96 or 480 tests kit)

• An Enzyme Immunoassay for the detection of antibodies to Hepatitis C Virus
• Assay employs Antigens derived from different HCV genotypes avoid missing samples that lack genotypic cross-reactivity.
• High sensitivity and specificity by optimal coverage of immunodominant HCV epitopes.
• User friendly with sample addition monitoring and coloured reagents.

INNO-LIA TM HCV: Confirmation Assay (20 tests kit)

• A Line Immunoassay for the confirmation and differentiation of antibodies to Hepatitis C Virus.
• Contains carefully chosen, unique antigens, highly reactive and specific, leading to clear-cut results.
• High sensitivity: 100%
• High specificity on screened negative blood donors: 94.5% Complete automation available

Microgen Bioproducts has a range of genotyping, screening and confirmation tests for Virologists, which includes kits for the diagnosis of; HPV, HIV, HTLV, HBV, Syphilis and Mycobacteria.

IMPROVED LEGIONELLA RAPID TEST

The Microgen Legionella Rapid Test (M45CE) is a rapid latex agglutination test for the confirmatory identification of Legionella pnuemophila from selective agar. This kit which previously contained 2 latex reagents which differentiate between L. pneumophila serogroup 1 and serogroup 2-15 now includes a new latex reagent for the identification of a range of non L. pneumophila species, all of which have been implicated as causes of disease in humans. The new latex reagent exhibits a high level of specificity with no cross reactivity between the species included and L. pneumophila. This improved kit will now differentiate between L. pneumophila serogroup 1 and serogroup 2-15 and the following additional species: L. micdadei,L. bozemanae 1 & 2 , L. dumdoffii, L. longbeachae 1 & 2 , L. jordanis, L. gormanii, L. anisa and L. feeleii. This improvement to the Microgen Legionella Rapid Test makes it the most rapid, specific and sensitive test for Legionella currently available. Individual reagents are also available separately

IMPROVED ENTEROVIRUS TESTING

Microgen Bioproducts is pleased to announce the release of Super E-Mix ™ in a ReadyCell™ format. Super E-Mix™ cell line (in shell vials) is a mixed cell monolayer which contains human lung carcinoma (A-549) cells together with genetically modified buffalo green monkey kidney (BGMK) cells, which produce large amounts of human decay-accelerating factor (DAF) on the cell surface. DAF is a known receptor for the attachment of Enteroviruses and facilitates more efficient entry of the virus into host cells. The Super E-Mix™ ReadyCells™ cell line offers an improvement over conventional Enterovirus isolation and identification by eliminating the need to inoculate multiple cell lines, the new format now adds additional flexibility by providing ready prepared cell monolayers (ReadyCells™ ) as shell vials which are stored at -70°C and can be kept for up to 6 months, when required the desired number of ReadyCells™ - Super E-Mix™ can be thawed and inoculated, minimising cell wastage and eliminating the cost of constant deliveries for new cells. Small laboratories are not the sole beneficiaries of the new Readycell™ format, as large laboratories can easily manage an increase in testing due the constant availability of a ready-to-use frozen inventory of Super E-Mix™ cells. Combining the Super E-Mix™ cell line with the D³™ Enterovirus IFA kit offers the complete Enterovirus testing solution, for faster more accurate results in comparison to conventional cell culture. The D³™ Enterovirus IFA is a complete screening system for the detection of Enterovirus in cell culture by immunofluorescence using monoclonal antibodies. Super E-Mix™ and The D³ ™ Enterovirus IFA are part of a range of cell lines and IFA's for virologists from Microgen Bioproducts. To view the full range of products available to virologists please visit the virology section of the website. Super E-Mix and D³ are trademarks of Diagnostic Hybrid Inc, Ohio , USA .

PULSIFIER - The Revolution Continues!

The Revolution in Microbiological Sample Preparation; The Pulsifier® , is now included as a recommended method for food sample preparation for microbiological analysis in ISO 7218:2007(E), Microbiology of Food and Animal Feeding Stuffs. The Pulsifier® employs a revolutionary technology to produce samples more suitable for rapid microbiology methods, as processed samples feature less food matrix destruction and a cleaner aqueous phase, which is shown to make filtration and pipetting easier, minimising interference with PCR or flow cytometry techniques. ISO 7218:2007(E) states the Pulsifier® is suitable for most foodstuffs including sharp, hard or dry foods which peristaltic homogenisers (Stomacher) are not suitable for use with, due to bag breakage. ISO 7218:2007(E) also states the Pulsifier® has the quickest run-time of 0.5-1 minute but evaluations have shown that there is no increase in bacterial recovery after 15 seconds, making the Pulsifier ® the most versatile and fastest instrument for microbiological sample preparation.

IMPROVED IDENTIFICATION OF STREPTOCOCCI AND ENTEROCOCCI

Microgen Bioproducts is releasing the latest addition to the Microgen-ID system range, the Strep-ID; a new biochemical system for the identification of Streptococcus species including viridians Streptococci , Beta-haemolytic Streptococci and Enterococci . Microgen Strep-ID consists of 12 biochemical tests specifically formulated to identify the target group of organisms within 18-24 hours of inoculation. In addition to the 12 biochemical tests in the 12 well microwell strip, 3 external tests are required, Hippurate Hydrolysis (included in the kit) and alpha and beta haemolysis on blood agar plate. The interpretation of results which employs up-to-date taxonomy is provided with an easy-to-use computer database. The Microgen Strep-ID saves time and labour whilst improving the accuracy and cost of identification of the target organisms. Each kit contains sufficient microwell strips and Hippurate Hydrolysis tubes for 20 identifications. This is the latest addition to the family of innovative Microgen-ID systems including tests for Gram-Negative and positive Bacilli, Listeria and Staphylococcus.

PATH-CHEK HYGIENE PATHOGEN - DETECTION OF IMPORTANT FOODBORNE PATHOGENS IN FOOD HANDLING ENVIRONMENTS

Microgen Bioproducts has released the Path-Chek Hygiene Pathogen System for the detection of important food-borne pathogens ( Listeria spp, Coliforms and Salmonella spp.) from work surfaces and manufacturing equipment in food handling and manufacturing environments. The pathogen detection system consists of two units; a pre-moistened swab, which has the benefit of neutralising the effects of cleaning solutions and improving bacteria recovery from dry surfaces; and a highly specific and sensitive detection media which gives results by providing a clear visual colour change in 18-24 hours for Coliforms and Salmonella spp. and 30-48 hours for Listeria spp . , if specific organisms are present on surfaces. The pathogen detection system meets the requirements of ISO: 18395:2004(E) and is compliant with the requirements of USDA, FSIS and BAM but unlike similar methods does not require a pre-enrichment step. The use of the Path-Chek Hygiene Pathogen Swab provides a rapid, easy-to-use and cost-effective method of pathogen and hygiene monitoring, which should be part of any comprehensive HACCP plan.

IMPROVED RAPID DIPSTICKS FOR ROTAVIRUS AND ROTAVIRUS/ADENOVIRUS

Microgen Bioproducts announces significant improvements to their the Rota Dipstick and Rota/Adeno Combi Dipstick immunochromatograhic tests. Both test strips have been improved upon to provide superior sensitivity (sensitivity 100%), a longer shelf-life of 18 months and increased readability. The improvements to the performance of the tests and the ease-of-use have been made possible due to the use of superior and differing antibodies. The dipsticks provide an even more rapid (results in 10 minutes rather than 15 minutes) and simple test which requires no centrifugation or filtration of the sample but with superior sensitivity and ease-of-use.

The Rota Dipstick and Rota/Adeno Combi Dipstick are part of the range of tests available for the detection of Rotavirus and Adenovirus from Microgen Bioproducts. The range includes an enzyme immuno-assay and a rapid latex agglutination test for the detection of Rotavirus as well as an enzyme-immuno assay and a rapid latex agglutination test for the detection of Adenovirus .

ONE STAIN, ONE FILTER…TWO RAPID RESULTS (AVAILABLE IN UK ONLY)

Microgen Bioproducts is introducing the Duet™ range of direct fluorescent antibody assays for the qualitative identification of Influenza A, RSV, and Respiratory viruses in cell cultures. The introduction of new antiviral drugs has created a need for more discrimination in the use of antibiotics and has increased the need for rapid, accurate and easy-to-use method for detection of respiratory viral agents. The D³ Duet™ range of respiratory virus DFA kits meet the needs of modern viral diagnosis by employing dual fluorescent technology and a single light filter. Fluorescent isothiocyanate (FITC) and RPhycoerythrin (R-PE), permit the detection of either Influenza A or RSV whilst screening for the six other respiratory viruses. The D³ Duet™ range has been extended by the release of the D³ Double Duet™ Respiratory Virus Screening & ID kit, which identifies the clinically important Influenza A, Respiratory Syncytical Virus (RSV), Metapneumovirus (MPV) and detects the presence of Influenza B, Adenovirus, Parainfluenza 1,2, and 3, in respiratory tract cells. When combined with R-Mix™ respiratory cell lines, this further improves the efficiency of diagnosis by allowing culture and detection to be completed within 48 hours of receipt of the sample. The D³ Duet™ range includes: D³ Double Duet™ Respiratory Virus Screening & ID Kit D³ Duet™ Influenza A/Resp Screening Kit D³ Duet™ RSV/Resp Virus Screening Kit

RAPID ENTEROVIRUS TESTING SOLUTIONS (AVAILABLE IN UK ONLY)

Microgen Bioproducts is introducing a rapid and highly sensitive IFA assay for the identification of Enterovirus: D 3 IFA Enterovirus. The assay can prevent unnecessary anti-microbial treatment by offering a rapid final result in as little as 16 hours, and due to superior staining is achieved using newly developed monoclonal antibodies which target the Enterovirus VP 1 Protein. The reagent will therefore detect Coxsackie A + B viruses, Echovirus, Enteroviruses and Polioviruses 1, 2+ 3. The use of this monoclonal eliminates cross reactions with Rhinovirus, Coronavirus and HSV. The high sensitivity and rapid result is complimented by a simplified workflow, as no additional steps are required after the simple IFA staining procedure is complete. D 3 IFA Enterovirus can provide laboratories with the complete Enterovirus solution when combined with Super E-Mix TM Cells, which allows isolation of Enterovirus in a single culture system.

The D 3 IFA Enterovirus is from the D 3 range which includes:

D 3 Duets assays for the identification of Influenza A or RSV in a single culture.

D 3 MPV for the identification of Metapneumovirus in both direct specimens and rapid culture.

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BACTfish™ - 1 HOUR, MOLECULAR IDENTIFICATION OF IMPORTANT CLINICAL PATHOGENS

(AVAILABLE IN UK ONLY)

Microgen Bioproducts is introducing BACTfish™ Fluorescence in situ Hybridisation (FISH) products for the rapid and specific molecular detection of pathogenic bacteria in clinical samples. BACTfish™ offers identification of bacterial pathogens within the hour after gram-staining, which in comparison to conventional methods that take 3-5 days to produce a reliable result after the culture and isolation of the organism. The faster turnaround time results in the appropriate treatment being administrated earlier and the risk of antibiotic resistance decreased as invariably patients are treated with broad-screen antibiotics prior to identification.

BACTfish™ products utilise FISH technology, a molecular method which detects specific information in the rRNA sequence of an organism, by the hybridisation of DNA probes to species specific regions of bacterial ribosomes. Unlike other molecular methods such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR), the BACTfish™ method does not require amplification and apart from a fluorescence microscope, the only equipment required is a BACTwave™; a novel and inexpensive microwave based thermocycler.

The BACTfish™ range includes products for the broad-screening of Sepsis causing organisms, Cystic Fibrosis microbiology and meningitis identification. In addition to the broad screening for Sepsis-causing organisms it is possible to screen for Staphylococcus aureus whilst determining if coagulase negative Staphylococci are present in blood culture.

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MICROGEN ID SOFTWARE Version 1.2.4.25 RELEASE

Microgen Bioproducts has released a new Microgen Identification Systems Software (MID-60) package to complement its range of Microgen ID Bacterial Identification Systems. This software includes new features which simplify the use of the software and provide significant improvements to the interpretation of identifications with recommended further actions if required. A significant new feature is the ability of the software to detect abnormal reactions patterns and to highlight these abnormalities e.g. Glucose negative Gram negative bacilli. The ability to export archived results to other database programs has also been included.

All customers who have already as registered as users of the original version of the software (Version 1.1.16.19) on the Microgen Bioproducts Website will continue to receive FREE database updates until June, 2008, after which support for this version of the software will cease.

All customers who are registered as users of Version 1.1.16.19 of the software will automatically be regisered as users of Version 1.2.4.15. once they upgrade. Their original password will still apply.

All current users of any of the Microgen Bacterial Identification Systems ( Enterobacteriacea, Bacilli, Listeria spp. and Bacillus spp., Staphylococcus spp.) should contact their local distributor to obtain this latest software version (Ver. 1.2.4.25).

Inno-LiPA HPV GENOTYPING KIT NOW AVAILABLE (UK ONLY)

Microgen Bioproducts is releasing the Inno-LiPA HPV Genotyping test for cervical cancer prevention. The strong association of Human Papillomavirus (HPV) with cervical cancer and the release of prophylactic vaccines has increased the need for a highly
specific, cost-effective and geno-specific assay for the diagnosis of Human Papillomavirus. Microgen Bioproducts is meeting this need with the release of the Inno- LiPA HPV Genotyping. The assay is based on the polymerase chain-reaction (PCR) and
uses the SPF10 primer set followed by Line Immunoassay, allowing for sensitive and specific (>95%) identification of all clinically relevant HPV geno-types; including genotypes 16, 18, 45 and 31 which have strong associations with the development of cervical
cancer and are included in the EMEA and FDA approved prophylactic vaccines. The assay can provide valuable information for the selection of patients suitable for vaccination, post-vaccination evaluation and the management of HPV-positive patients.
The Inno-LiPA HPV Genotyping assay can be used on a wide variety of samples including biopsy and paraffin-embedded samples. The broad sample application is complimented by a unique HPV control line and the availability of automation on the
Auto-LiPA 48 to offer the most comprehensive HPV geno-typing package.

The use of genetically modified foods and ingredients is controlled by EU law. Presence of approved GM materials must be indicated on the product label. Equally and as importantly, producers need to know what level of approvaed GM material is present or absent in ingredients especially if they are producing food that is ‘GM free'.

Microgen is introducing a range of molecular tests for the detection of a range of GM genetic sequences such as 35S, NOS and RR. The kits are available for conventional PCR, real-time qualitative PCR and real-time quantitative PCR and contain all necessary reagents.

The caulif lower mosaic virus 35S promoter and the NOS terminator sequences are found in the most commonly available GM crops from around the world, including soybean, maize and rapeseed, the three most common GM foods.

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FOOD ALLERGEN TESTS NOW AVAILABLE FROM MICROGEN (UK ONLY)

Between 10 and 20% of the population are thought to have some form of allergy to a food or food ingredient, a trend which is increasing. Symptoms range from rash, itching, vomiting to difficulty with breathing and in some rare cases, death. While legislation exists for food manufacturers to list ingredients research has shown that many consumers are not able to use the information effectively. Manufacturers are required by law to list ingredients in a product and should be able to show that potential allergenic material has not entered the production chain either as ingredient or cross-contamination. Traditional tests for allergens suffer from false positives and false negatives and, in processed foods can sometimes fail to detect allergens at all. Microgen Bioproducts is introducing the Allergen Collection of PCR products from HKDNA Chips Ltd. Unlike traditional tests, molecular methods need only a very small sample of DNA will not give false positives and can be used in foods that have been processed or cooked. These new tests contain all the required materials to perform the assay. Download Product Information

INTRODUCTION OF AES CHROMOGENIC MEDIA FOR CLINICAL LABORATORIES (AVAILABLE IN UK ONLY)

In addition to the Metistaph 2 chromogenic agar for the presumptive identification of Methicillin Resistant strains of S. aureus and ASAP Medium for the isolation and presumptive identification of Salmonnella spp. , the following additional prepared media are now available for clinical laboratories:

• ODA Medium - chromogenic medium for the detection of E.coli O157
• Strepto B Medium - a selective screening medium for Group B Streptococcus
• USB Medium - chromogenic medium for the isolation and differentiation of common urinary pathogens
• VRE Medium - chromogenic medium for the isolation of Vancomycin Resistant Streptococci

For more information on these products refer to the Downloads Page or contact your local Microgen, UK Sales Representative.

Hb S-TEST CONTROLS NOW AVAILABLE

Microgen Bioproduct's S-Test (M96-50CE, 50 test), an in vitro diagnostic assay for the detection of haemoglobin S, has been enhanced.

The principal of S-Test is based upon the differential solubility of Haemoglobin from Sickle Cell Anaemia sufferers compared to that of normal subjects. The presence of Hb-S is indicated by a turbid solution after lysing the red blood cells in the test solution.

S-Test, which already offers features such as a simple-to-perform procedure, availability of results within 5 minutes, a method to differentiate between heterozygous Hb-AS and homozygous Hb-SS and a viewing rack; has been enhanced by the availability of NEW positive and negative controls.

The addition of positive and negative controls will reinforce the reliability and specificity of the test. The controls are available separately and supplied in liquid form which can be aliquoted and stored frozen for up to 3 years, offering consistent and reproducible results.

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NEW KIT DETECTS METAPNEUMOVIRUS (AVAILABLE IN UK ONLY)

Metapneumovirus is a unique virus producing symptoms identical to RSV. There are 4 known serotypes and no commercial reagents have been previously available to detect all of them. Microgen Bioproducts is introducing the latest in the line of the DFA kits from Diagnostic Hybrids – D3 Metapneumovirus. The blend of monoclonal antibodies has been carefully selected to detect all serotypes directly from clinical specimens or tissue culture in just 15 minutes. All the necessary reagents including control slides are available (Kit Code 01-030000). For added convenience control slides are also available separately (Kit Code 03-000070). D3 Metapneumovirus is part of an exclusive range of products for virologists supplied by Microgen Bioproducts. Download Product Information

MICROGEN LISTERIA ID RECEIVES CMMAS APPROVAL

The AOAC approved Microgen Listeria-ID Biochemical Identification System has now been evaluated and approved against the Campden Microbiological Methods Scheme (CMMAS) by the Campden and Chorleywood Food Research Association Group, for the identification of Listeria species. The CMMAS evaluation involved comprehensive product evaluations by a number of independent laboratories and extensive testing by the Campden and Chorelywood Food Research Association Group Laboratories.

Microgen Listeria-ID is a miniaturised biochemical test system comprising Aesculin hydrolysis, 10 sugar fermentation tests and a highly sensitive and accurate micro-haemolysis reaction replacing the conventional CAMP test required for the differentiation of important pathogenic species of Listeria from non-pathogenic species. With Microgen Listeria-ID there is no need to sub-culture from selective media and no need for a separate haemolysis plate saving twenty four hours on conventional methods.

The Microgen Identification System Software, used in conjunction with Microgen Listeria-ID gives an alert if the user tries to identify a non-listeria species providing the laboratory with a secure, accurate method of identification.

Microgen Listeria-ID and the associated Microgen Identification System Software provide laboratories with the easiest-to-use and most accurate identification package available. DOWNLOAD CMMAS REPORT

INNOGENETICS INNO-LiPA CFTR19 and CFTR17 + Tn Update

INNO-LiPA CFTR19 and CFTR17 + Tn Update al lo w the identification of the most common mutations of the CFTR gene and included optional Tn Typing. Mutant and wild type probes are included on the sa me strip allowing easy comparison. Only two amplicons are needed to detect and identify 36 mutations. Both as sa ys are fully automatable using Auto-LiPA and the results analysed using LiRAS software.

Microgen Bioproducts has been an FDA Certified manufacturer of laboratory diagnostic kits since 1994. We have now completed the FDA registration process for a larger range of our clinical kits enabling these kits to be used in laboratories throughout the United States without any restrictions.

The products which are now FDA Registered include:

• FSK1,3,4 and DDP – Fungal Serology Kits
• Merret Tubes – Reticulocyte staining
• Bacterial Identification –
• Microgen ID – Biochemical Identification Kits for Gram Negative Bacilli and Staphylococci
• Microgen Latex – Latex Agglutination kits for the screening or identification of Salmonella, S. aureus, C. difficile, E. coli O157 and Streptococcal Grouping
• Virus Detection – Latex agglutination and EIA kits for the detection of Adenovirus and Rotavirus direct from stool samples.

These kits are now available in the US through Microbiology International and Medox .

The registration of these products further demonstrates Microgen Bioproducts commitment to the supply of quality laboratory diagnostics to the world market.

IMPROVEMENTS TO MICROSCREEN™ PRODUCTS

Microgen Bioproducts is making some improvements to its Microscreen Range of Latex Agglutination Culture Confirmation kits.

•  NEW PACKAGING will reduce the pack volume of the current products so that they take up less room in fridges and cold rooms. For international customers this will also reduce shipping costs. We have reduced the volume of our packaging for most test kits by 50%. This has in part been made possible by changing the design of the reagent mixing sticks.

•  NEW NAME – MICROSCREEN™ kits will now be branded as MICROGEN™ products. There are no changes in performance specifications or intended use - the name change simply reflects our policy to promote the MICROGEN name worldwide.

•  IMPROVED CONVENIENCE – the presentation and formulation of the sample diluent in the Microgen Campylobacter kit will be brought into line with other Culture Confirmation kits and be provided in convenient dropper bottles for ease of use.

These changes require no actions on the part of customers or distributors. The improvements will be phased in gradually over the next six months and existing product ordering codes will be maintained.

During this transition period the naming used in our product lists and on this site will remain as Microscreen.

MICROGEN™ STAPH ID – A NEW PRODUCT RELEASE

In response to the need for an accurate, easy-to-use and cost effective identification system for medically important Staphylococci, Microgen Bioproducts announces the release of Microgen™ Staph ID.

The Microgen™ Staph ID identifies all species of Staphylococcus related to humans, both as commensals, opportunistic pathogens, and established pathogens. The kit may also be used to identify species of environmental and animal health significance.

The Microgen™ Staph ID test panel consists of 13 biochemical tests specifically formulated to identify the target group of organisms. When used in conjunction with a coagulase or Staphylococcal latex agglutination test, these test panels provide identification of Staphylococci within 24 hours of inoculation. The interpretation of results is provided with an easy-to-use computer database employing up-to-date taxonomy. Regular updates to the software are available at no charge for customers registered as software users. Each kit is contains sufficient test panels for 20 identifications.

The Microgen™ Staph ID is quick to set up and simple to read, providing a very effective means of identify these organisms which are often simply classified as Coagulase Negative Staphylococci because existing methods are both laborious and expensive.

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MICROGEN BIOPRODUCTS RELEASES MAJOR UPDATE TO IDENTIFICATION SYSTEMS SOFTWARE

Microgen Bioproducts have released its most recent update to its Microgen Identification Systems Software (MID-60) to complement its range of Microgen ID Bacterial Identification Systems. This software release includes a number of new features which assist users in ensuring that they are identifying the correct organism using the correct system. In addition a number of new database updates have been included, the most significant being the inclusion of the database for the recently released Microgen Bacillus ID (MID-66).

An important new feature is the facility for software registration. All users who register as software users on the Microgen Bioproducts Website are entitled to all future database updates at no cost.

All current users of any of the Microgen Bacterial Identification Systems (Gram Negative Bacilli, Listeria spp. and Bacillus spp. ) should contact their local distributor to obtain this latest software version (Ver. 1.1.16.19)

To Register as a Software User Visit: www.microgenbioproducts.com/midregistration.asp

FUNCTIONAL IMPROVEMENTS TO PATHCHEK ®

The range of PathChek ® hygiene swabs for Coliforms, Salmonella spp. , Staph aureus and Vibrio parahaemolyticus for the environmental monitoring of food handling and processing environments have recently been re engineered in order to improve their ease of use and their safety. The sensitivity and accuracy of each of these systems remains unchanged these functional changes ensure easier usage and improved safety through the elimination of breakable glass reagent vials containing specific culture media and decontamination solutions.

The use of the PathChek ® hygiene swabs provide organisations with highly specific and sensitive environmental monitoring systems for key food pathogens. Sensitivity levels as low as less than 10 organisms per swab may be detected within 24 hours of the sample being taken.

To view specificity and sensitivity information download our new PathChek ® Technical Support Document. Download here

OXIDASE STRIPS

Microgen Bioproducts has recently released its new format Oxidase Strips (MID-61g). These strips have been enlarge to allow the performance of multiple tests per strip (original strips allowed 1 test per test strip) and the formulation has been modified to ensure fewer false positive reactions. These new strips are available in packs of 50 strips.

NEW ADDITION TO DIAGNOSTIC HYBRIDS CELL CULTURE RANGE - DHI Frozen FreshCells

A new format of cell lines is now available from Microgen Bioproducts in addition to FreshCells and ReadyCells – Frozen FreshCells. These are ampoules containing sufficient material to seed 50 or 100 tubes or shell vials with coverslips. The ampoules can be stored at -70°C for 6 months or indefinitely in liquid nitrogen. The ampoule is thawed and 37°C Planting medium added. This suspension is then used to seed tubes or shell vials and after 3 to 4 days at 37°C they are ready to be inoculated with sample.

Available cell lines R-Mix (for shell vials only)

R-Mix Too

Super E-Mix

MRC-5

MDCK

Hep-2

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AVAILABLE IN THE UK ONLY

Microgen Launches New Identification System for Bacillus and Related Species Microgen™ Bacillus ID has been developed in response to the food and beverage industries need for an accurate, easy-to-use identification system for Bacillus and related species which is fast, accurate and inexpensive when compared to currently available methods. The Microgen™ Bacillus ID identifies all commonly encountered Bacillus species and related genera commonly associated with foodborne disease and food spoilage. The Microgen™ Bacillus ID consists of 24 biochemical tests specifically formulated to identify the target group of organisms. These substrates provide identification within 48 hours of inoculation. The interpretation of results which employs up-to-date taxonomy is provided with an easy-to-use computer database. This product saves time and labour, whilst improving the accuracy and cost of identification of these organisms. Each kit contains suspending medium and sufficient microwell strips for 20 identifications. This is the latest addition to the family of innovative Microgen ID systems including Gram Negative Bacilli and Listeria spp. Download Product Information Download Microlab Newsletter Download ASM 2005 Poster Presentation

Microgen's Monoclonal-Enhanced Legionella Test

Microscreen Legionella is one of an extensive range of latex agglutination kits manufactured by Microgen Bioproducts Ltd for the confirmation of cultured organisms. L. pneumophila is the cause of Legionnaires Disease and latex agglutination is one of the most commonly employed methods used to confirm of the identity and serotype of L. pneumophila isolated from both clinical and environmental samples.

The Microscreen Legionella 50-test kit uses the tried and trusted latex agglutination technology and has now been improved by the inclusion into the test reagent of a Monoclonal Antibody specific for serogroup 1. This significantly improves the specificity and readability of positive test results. The test may be performed directly from all types of selective agar plate media with no further steps required. This test differentiates between serogroup 1 and serogroups 2-15. The inclusion of serogroup 15 (Lancing strain) ensures comprehensive coverage of Legionella spp.

Microgen Bioproducts is one of the worlds most experienced latex kit producers. The company specialises in the development and manufacture of rapid tests for the detection and monitoring of disease and disease-causing organisms.

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Microgen Listeria ID (MID 67) was granted AOAC Research Institute Performance Tested Methods (PTM) Status

The Microgen Bioproducts Listeria Identification Kit, Microgen ® Listeria ID (MID 67) has been granted AOAC Research Institute Performance Tested Methods (PTM) Status by the internationally recognized AOAC International. The achievement of Performance Tested Methods Status is a complex task requiring extensive performance validation including confirming the ability of the kit to accurately identify Listeria spp. from a wide range of sources, the ability of the kit to discriminate clearly between Listeria spp. and non Listeria spp., shelf life validation and the general robustness of the kit under extremes of testing conditions including, inoculum variation, incubation temperature. In addition, compliance with BAM Methods must be confirmed.

The AOAC International has examined the Microgen ® Listeria ID (MID 67) kit and has recognized that it is not only does the kit fulfill its intended purpose i.e. identify Listeria spp., but it is able to readily discriminate non Listeria spp. complies with the BAM Method and meets all of the criteria for robustness both in terms of usability and storage required of a kit to meet their stringent requirements for PTM Status.

The Microgen ® Listeria ID kit comprises 11 carbohydrate utilization tests and a highly sensitive haemolysis test housed in a microwell format for the identification of Listeria species. The carbohydrate utilization tests employ a simple colour change based on the formation of acid end products from fermentation, whilst the haemolysin test is simply performed by adding 1 drop of the specially stabilized sheep red blood cells comprising the haemolysin reagent to the last well (well 12) of the test panel. If the organism being identified produces haemolysin ( L. monocytogenes ), the red blood cells will rapidly be lysed and the cellular contents released into the suspending medium and the contents of the well will appear as a homogeneous red/ brown solution. Alternatively, if the organism being identified does not produce haemolysin, the stabilized red blood cells will remain intact. These cells will settle to the bottom of the microwell forming a distinct red layer with a clear supernatant. The results from the identification panel are then interpreted using the Microgen ® Identification Systems Software, an easy to use but sophisticated software package which includes numerous unique features to assist in the interpretation of test results.

DOWNLOAD CURRENT AOAC APPROVAL CERTIFICATE