Rapid Fluorescence-Based Detection Of Microbial Contamination In Ethanol And Gel-Based Disinfectant

Ethanol and gel-based disinfectant samples must undergo QC controls to ensure that the bioburden is below an acceptable level. Membrane filtration is the most widely used method for release testing. If used in conjunction with rapid bioburden testing methods, it allows final products to be released to the market earlier than when using compendial methods.

The fluorescence-based Milliflex® Quantum technology offers a convenient and sensitive method for the quantitative rapid detection of contaminants in filterable samples. It can detect microbial contamination up to three times faster than traditional plate-based monitoring methods. The rapid microbial method is based on a universal enzymatic fluorescent staining of viable and culturable microorganisms that allows microcolonies to be detected before they become visible to the naked eye. The fluorescent staining procedure is non-destructive, making it possible to identify microorganisms following a positive result.

The aim of this study was to demonstrate the Milliflex® Quantum system's capability to detect the bioburden in ethanol and gel-based disinfectants using Milliflex Oasis® MCE and PVDF membrane filters. Furthermore, the study describes an effective way to neutralize the bactericidal activity of the two alcohol-containing matrices.