Liofilchem™ Ornithine Decarboxylase Test, 30 Tests

Rapid Test for Detection of Ornithine Decarboxylase Activity in Bacterial Isolates

The Liofilchem® Ornithine Decarboxylase Test is a rapid, in vitro diagnostic tool designed for the identification and differentiation of Enterobacteriaceae and other Gram-negative bacteria. The test detects the enzymatic activity of ornithine decarboxylase, enabling biochemical differentiation based on decarboxylation reactions. It is widely used in clinical microbiology laboratories, food and water testing, pharmaceutical quality control, and academic research.

Principle of the Test

The test is based on the ability of certain bacteria to produce the enzyme ornithine decarboxylase, which catalyzes the removal of the carboxyl group from L-ornithine, forming putrescine, an amine that increases the pH of the medium.

The test medium contains:

• Ornithine – the amino acid substrate for the enzyme
• Glucose – fermentable sugar to induce acidic conditions
• Pyridoxal – a coenzyme essential for decarboxylase activity
• Bromocresol purple – a pH indicator

Test reactions:

• Positive reaction (purple): Indicates ornithine decarboxylase activity and putrescine production, causing an alkaline shift.
• Negative reaction (yellow): Indicates fermentation of glucose only, without decarboxylase activity.

Key Features & Benefits

✅ Rapid and Easy-to-Use

Requires minimal setup; results available within 18–96 hours.

✅ Reliable Differentiation

Effectively differentiates enteric bacilli and other Gram-negative bacteria.

✅ Clear Color Change for Interpretation

Distinct color shift from yellow (acidic) to purple (alkaline) simplifies results interpretation.

✅ High Specificity

Based on decarboxylation of L-ornithine, avoiding non-specific reactions.

✅ Standardized Format

Pre-dosed tubes ensure consistency and reproducibility across tests.

✅ Quality Controlled

Validated against reference strains (e.g., E. coli, Salmonella, Proteus mirabilis).

Test Procedure

1. Allow test tubes to reach room temperature.
2. Add 0.3 mL of physiological saline to each tube.
3. Inoculate with a pure culture from overnight incubation.
4. Overlay the medium with 2–3 drops of sterile mineral oil.
5. Incubate at 35 ± 2°C for up to 96 hours.
6. Observe daily for color changes.

Interpretation of Results

Quality Control Strains

Product Specifications

Applications

• Clinical diagnostics for enteric pathogens
• Bacterial identification in research labs
• Screening of food and water for microbial contamination
• Educational use in microbiology training

Safety and Compliance

• For professional use only
• Not hazardous under current legislation
• Dispose of all biohazardous materials per local regulations
• Refer to Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for handling precautions

Ordering Information

The Liofilchem® Ornithine Decarboxylase Test is a dependable, easy-to-interpret solution for the detection of ornithine decarboxylase activity in bacterial isolates. With its rapid turnaround, standardized reagents, and clear visual results, it supports efficient microbiological diagnosis and differentiation of Gram-negative bacteria.