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Microbiological Services for Health and Environmental Monitoring
The bacteriology laboratory at Charles River Laboratories provides full-service microbiological monitoring of laboratory animals. Additionally, in support of your environmental monitoring program, we provide water sterility testing by membrane filtration, processing of environmental monitoring samples, as well as processing and culturing of aerobic, anaerobic, and microaerophilic bacteria.
Microbiology in Support of Health Monitoring
Collection of respiratory and enteric cultures during necropsy is standard for all of our health monitoring protocols. These cultures are screened for primary pathogens and for a selected group of bacteria which are considered important opportunistic pathogens. Identification of bacterial agents is performed using standard biochemical methods (API® and Vitek® systems are employed).
Microbiology in Support of Environmental Monitoring
Charles River offers Environmental Monitoring to test laboratory environments. Microbial water tests assure the purity of animal drinking water and RODAC plates and environmental swabs monitor cage, laboratory, and cage washing system surfaces. We also offer antimicrobial sensitivity testing. Utilizing the Kirby-Bauer method, results are reported as either sensitive, intermediate, or resistant. We have developed easy-to-implement screens to test water, feed, bedding, and facilities. In addition, we offer post-contamination response testing to confirm the effectiveness of your recycle process.
For a complete listing of our Research Animal Diagnostic Services, please view the 2008 Research Models & Services Catalog.
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