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Long-term preservation of streptococci
K N Brahmadathan1, R Pandian, G Koshi
1Department of Microbiology, Christian Medical College & Hospital, Vellore.
The Indian Journal of Medical Research
|February 1, 1995
Summary
Sand desiccation effectively preserves group A streptococci for over 21 years. This cost-effective method ensures bacterial viability for laboratories lacking advanced preservation techniques.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Bacteriology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Group A streptococci are significant human pathogens.
- Long-term preservation of bacterial strains is crucial for research and diagnostics.
- Traditional preservation methods can be costly or require specialized equipment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of sand desiccation for long-term preservation of group A streptococci.
- To determine the viability of preserved streptococcal strains over an extended period.
- To present sand desiccation as a practical alternative for bacterial strain storage.
Main Methods:
- Twelve T types of group A streptococci were preserved using sand desiccation.
- Strains were stored at 4°C to 10°C.
- Regular sub-culturing in Todd-Hewitt broth with sheep blood was performed to assess viability every six months.
Main Results:
- Group A streptococci strains remained viable for 21 years when preserved by sand desiccation.
- The method proved reliable for maintaining bacterial cultures over a long duration.
- Sub-culturing confirmed consistent growth and viability of the preserved strains.
Conclusions:
- Sand desiccation is a convenient and inexpensive method for the long-term preservation of streptococci.
- This technique is suitable for laboratories with limited resources for advanced preservation methods.
- The study validates sand desiccation as a viable strategy for maintaining bacterial strain collections.