Atlantic Research Corporation

George Mason University

Center for Innovative Technology

Jenefir D Isbister

Richard C Doyle

A semi-quantitative method for determining the concentration of viable coliforms or E. coli in a liquid is provided. The sample to be tested is mixed with an indicator reagent which includes a specific indicator compound that undergoes a change that is detectable by spectrophotometric or visual methods upon cleavage by a beta galactosidase enzyme found in coliforms or a beta glucuronidase enzyme unique to E. coli.

Biological assay for microbial contamination

Methods and kits for detecting the presence of and quantifying the concentration of viable microorganisms in a liquid sample are provided. Enzymes present in viable microorgansims reduce an indicator reagent to produce a visible color change. No titrations or dilutions of the sample are necessary. Variations of the test are described which can be used to detect a threshold level of viable microorganisms, to detect the presence or absence of viable microorganisms and to quantify the concentration of viable microorganisms in a liquid sample. The results are obtained rapidly with those for the detection available within thirty minutes and those for the quantification available within thirteen hours.

A novel mutant microorganism Acinetobacter species CB2 having a registry number ATCC #53515 has been produced by chemical mutagenesis and is effective in removing organic sulfur compounds from carbonaceous materials such as fossil fuels e.g., coal, petroleum and petroleum products.

Acinetobacter species and its use in removing organic sulfur compounds

A novel mutant microorganism Pseudomonas sp. CB1 having a registry number ATCC 39381 has been produced by chemical mutagenesis and is effective in removing organic sulfur compounds from carbonaceous materials such as fossil fuels e.g., coal, petroleum and petroleum products.

Growing community of inventors

Potomac, MD, United States of America

Jenefir D Isbister