Learn how to perform and interpret the miniaturized, multi-test technique for bacterial identification.
Resource:
Lab manual: http://delrio.dcccd.edu/jreynolds/microbiology/2420/files/API%20%20RAPID%2020E.pdf
BioMerieux, Inc: https://apiweb.biomerieux.com
API 20E Instructions: http://biomanufacturing.org/uploads/files/587872707301898351-api20einstructions.pdf
Pearson MicroLab Tutor Video: API 20E
Introduction:
API-20E test strip (from bioMerieux, Inc.) is a standardized multi-test identification kit for Enterobacteriaceae family members which uses 21 miniaturized biochemical tests and a database (online software or codebook).
API 20 E (API = Analytical Profile Index)
Manufacturer: BioMérieux
Principle:
API test strip consists of 20 microtubes (wells) containing dehydrated testing media.
An unknown bacterial suspension is used to rehydrate and inoculate the media and the strip is incubated.
During incubation, biochemical reactions produce color changes, which are either spontaneous or revealed by the addition of reagents.
The test reactions are read according to the reading table, all + and - test results are compiled to obtain a profile number, which is then compared with the profiles in the codebook or uses online software to determine the identification of the bacterial genus and species.
(oxidase is not part of the strip but counts for the 21st test of API 20E - Enterobacteriaceae members are all negative)
Materials needed:
Setting up API 20E for inoculation and incubation:
Unknown bacterial specimen in agar plate
API 20E test strip
Sterile saline solution to make bacteria suspension
Sterile mineral oil to create anaerobioses for some tests
Reagents for reading API 20E after incubation:
Barrett's reagents A and B for VP test
Kovac's reagent for indole test
10% FeCl3 for TDA test
Pearson MicroLab Tutor Video: API 20E Oversized video in the file “API 20E.mpg” Please play in the file “API 20E.mpg” separately.
https://youtu.be/PXIis18qN9k
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ew3amo02_b0
More API videos:
Procedure:
1. Prepare a suspension of unknown bacteria in the saline tube.
Procedure continued:
2. Inoculate the API strip:
All wells - filled with bacteria suspension to the neck.
CIT, VP, and GEL - filled with more bacteria suspension to the top.
ADH, LDC, ODC, H2S, and URE - filled with sterile mineral oil to the top to create anaerobioses for the tests.
Procedure continued:
3. Incubate the strip in its chamber (tray):
Fill the divots of the tray with water to ensure the humidity for the microtubes not to dry out.
Place the strip into the tray.
Cover the chamber with the lid, and label it.
Incubate at 37oC for 18-24 hours.
4. Read test reactions according to the reading table after Incubation:
Add the test reagents to the wells:
1 drop of Barritt's A and B to VP (wait ~ 10 minutes to read)
1 drop of Kovac's to IND
1 drop of FeCl3 to TDA
Read all other tests without reagents.