MUTA-CHROMOPLATE

The Muta-ChromoPlate kit is based on the most generally used and validated bacterial reverse mutation test, known as the “Ames Test”. The test employs a mutant strain, or several strains, of Salmonella typhimurium, carrying mutation(s) in the operon coding for histidine biosynthesis. When these bacteria are exposed to mutagenic agents, under certain conditions reverse mutation from amino acid (histidine) auxotrophy to prototrophy occurs.

Traditionally, reverse-mutation assays have been performed using agar plates. An alternate assay performed entirely in liquid culture is the “Fluctuation Test”, based on multiple yes/no colour endpoints. This test principle is being applied in the Muta-ChromoPlate.

Features:

• More sensitive than the pour plate assay, mainly because it allows testing of higher concentrations of sample (up to 75% v/v).
• Procedure is simple and requires minimal training.
• The assay consumable components are provided ready-to-use and step-by-step “instructions for use” are provided with the basic kit.
• Test can be performed in non-specialized laboratory, the only equipment accessories required are a 37ºC incubator, a single and a multichannel micropipetor.

Applications:

• Testing of industrial effluents for possible mutagenic compounds.
• Screening of municipal discharges for possible spills of mutagenic compounds.
• Screening of surface and/or groundwater for mutagenic residues.
• Screening of air pollutants for mutagenic agents.
• Evaluation of pure or complexed row mixtures for potential mutagenicity.
• Convenient research and environmental monitoring tool.