MICROCRM: Preparation and control of batches ofmicrobiological reference materials consisting of capsules

摘要

Batches of microbiological reference materials (RMs) were prepared forperforming feasibility certification studies in the European project'MICROCRM'. Each of the three partners in the project, Institute Pasteur(Lille, Fr), the Public Health Laboratory Services, (Newcastle, UK) andthe National Institute for Public Health and the Environment, (Bilthoven,NL) produced batches of one of three different types of microbiologicalRMs (pastilles, lenticules or capsules). Four batches of capsule RMs,each containing a different strain, were prepared at the RIVM. Eachbatch was tested for its homogeneity, long-term stability at storagetemperature (-20 degrees C) and short-term stability at elevatedtemperatures (5 degrees C, 22 degrees C, 30 degrees C, and 36 degrees C). The batch of capsule RMs containing Escherichia coli was analysed using 2different culture methods. The batch of RMs containing Enterococcusfaecium was analysed using 4 different culture methods. Batches of RMscontaining Clostridium perfringens and Pseudomonas aeruginosa were eachanalysed using one culture method. The batch of RMs containing P.aeruginosa showed poor stability at storage temperature (-20 degrees C),therefore it was decided not to use this batch for the feasibilitycertification studies. The quality of the three other batches of capsuleRMs was sufficient to warrant use in further studies.