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Fecal coliform elevated-temperature test: a physiological basis.

W S Dockins, G A McFeters

    Applied and Environmental Microbiology
    |August 1, 1978
    PubMed
    Summary
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    The Eijkman test uses elevated temperatures to distinguish fecal coliforms from nonfecal coliforms. This study reveals that cell membrane function and beta-galactosidase activity are key factors in nonfecal coliform inhibition at 44.5°C.

    Area of Science:

    • Microbiology
    • Environmental Science
    • Biochemistry

    Background:

    • The Eijkman test is a standard method for differentiating fecal coliforms from nonfecal coliforms in water quality assessments.
    • Understanding the physiological basis of this test is crucial for accurate microbial source tracking and public health protection.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To investigate the physiological mechanisms underlying the inhibitory effect of elevated temperatures (44.5°C) on nonfecal coliforms during the Eijkman test.
    • To identify specific cellular components and metabolic pathways affected by high temperatures in both fecal and nonfecal coliforms.

    Main Methods:

    • Manometric studies were employed to assess the impact of elevated temperature on microbial growth and metabolism.
    • Radioactive substrate ([14C]glucose) incorporation experiments were conducted to measure nutrient uptake rates.

    Related Experiment Videos

  • Enzyme activity assays were performed to evaluate beta-galactosidase levels and thermal stability.

    • Main Results:

    • Elevated temperatures (44.5°C) primarily inhibit nonfecal coliforms by affecting cellular components involved in both aerobic and fermentative lactose metabolism.
    • Cell membrane function is highly temperature-sensitive in nonfecal coliforms, evidenced by drastically reduced [14C]glucose uptake rates at 44.5°C compared to fecal coliforms.
    • Low beta-galactosidase activity and its thermal inactivation at moderate temperatures may further contribute to the inhibition of nonfecal coliforms.

    Conclusions:

    • The Eijkman test's efficacy relies on the differential temperature sensitivity of cell membrane transport and beta-galactosidase activity between fecal and nonfecal coliforms.
    • These findings provide a deeper understanding of the physiological basis of the Eijkman test, supporting its continued use in water quality monitoring.
    • Targeting these temperature-sensitive mechanisms could potentially lead to improved methods for coliform differentiation.