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A liquid, colorimetric presence-absence coliphage detection method

M M Ijzerman1, J O Falkinham, C Hagedorn

  • 1Department of Crop and Soil Environmental Sciences, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg 24061-0404.

Journal of Virological Methods
|December 15, 1993
PubMed
Summary

A new colorimetric method detects coliphages using Escherichia coli and beta-galactosidase induction. Positive samples turn red, indicating coliphage presence, offering a rapid and sensitive detection approach.

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Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Environmental Science
  • Water Quality Testing

Background:

  • Coliphages are indicators of fecal contamination in water.
  • Accurate and rapid detection of coliphages is crucial for public health.
  • Existing detection methods can be time-consuming or complex.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To describe a novel liquid, colorimetric method for detecting coliphages.
  • To evaluate the sensitivity and ease of use of this new assay.

Main Methods:

  • The method relies on the induction of beta-galactosidase by Escherichia coli upon lytic infection by coliphages.
  • A chromogenic substrate is used; its hydrolysis by beta-galactosidase results in a color change.
  • Positive samples (coliphage presence) turn red, while negative samples remain yellow.

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Main Results:

  • The developed method is a presence-absence assay for coliphages.
  • It demonstrated high sensitivity in detecting coliphages.
  • The assay is simpler, faster, and easier to interpret than traditional agar-based methods.

Conclusions:

  • This colorimetric method provides a rapid, inexpensive, and sensitive way to detect coliphages.
  • It offers a user-friendly alternative for water quality monitoring and public health assessments.