INTENDED USE
- BacterPlate™ Dnase Agar is recommended for the detection of deoxyribonuclease activity of bacteria and fungi, and especially for identification of pathogenic Staphylococci.
- The packaging with semi-permeable Cellophane film helps balance the humidity of the environment during storage.
PRINCIPLES
- BacterPlate™ Dnase Agar facilitates the detection of DNase activity through the hydrolysis of DNA incorporated in the medium. The process of DNA degradation is visualized using chemical indicators:
- Hydrolysis with HCl: DNA hydrolysis produces soluble oligonucleotides that dissolve in acid, while intact DNA remains as an insoluble salt. This creates a clear zone around DNase-positive colonies.
- Methyl Green Indicator: Methyl green binds to polymerized DNA, forming a stable green complex at pH 7.3. DNase activity disrupts the DNA structure, releasing methyl green and resulting in a colorless halo around positive colonies. The free methyl green naturally decolorizes at pH 7.3.
- Toluidine Blue O (TBO): TBO forms a complex with DNA that changes structure upon DNA hydrolysis, producing a bright pink coloration in the zone of hydrolysis.
- These mechanisms allow for precise visualization and differentiation of DNase-positive microorganisms based on the enzymatic degradation of DNA.