Method and kit for detecting microorganisms
AssigneeHome Health Science Inc.
InventorsSean M. Reilly, Paul T. LaRocca, Mary Anne Kunz LaRocca
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Abstract
The specification relates to a method for the detection and collection of samples of microorganisms, such as mold spores, from the air and from surfaces utilizing a collection device that employs a substantially dry growth medium which is hydrated by a premeasured volume of liquid after microorganism collection on the dry growth medium has occurred. The specification also relates to a microorganism collection and detection kit comprising a microorganism collection device having a substrate and a layer of dry growth medium applied thereon, and a container of a premeasured volume of hydrating liquid.
Claims18
A method for detecting microorganisms, comprising the steps of:
- (a) exposing a collection device bearing a dry growth medium to a microorganism-containing environment for a predetermined period of time;
- (b) adding a premeasured volume of activating liquid to the dry growth medium;
- and
- (c) allowing collected microorganisms to grow into colonies.
A kit for detecting microorganisms comprising:
- (a) a dry collection device for collecting microorganisms having a substrate with an upper surface and a layer of dry growth medium disposed on the upper surface of the substrate;
- and
- (b) a premeasured volume of liquid to hydrate the dry growth medium after the microorganisms have been collected thereon.
The kit of 12 wherein said dry collection device further comprises an air-permeable membrane, having its peripheral edge(s) substantially uncovered, and having a top surface and a bottom surface, the bottom surface being fixed to and covering at least a portion of the top surface of the substrate;
- and a dry growth medium fixed to and covering at least a portion of the top surface of the membrane comprising one or more nutrients for growing microorganisms, and optionally a gelling agent.
The kit of 12 wherein said kit further comprises a hand press having a pressing surface and a raised ring disposed on the pressing surface defining a predetermined area.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.