Lab M has launched Captivate™ O121, for the detection and isolation of Escherichia coli O121, a non-O157 Shiga Toxin-Producing Escherichia coli (STEC) that is associated with foodborne infection and is one of the 'big six' organisms in meat products for which testing is required in the USA.

Although the most common serogroups of STEC in Europe and the USA are E. coli O157 or O26, the incidence of other serotypes is increasing. The six major non-O157 STECs identified in the USA are O26, O45, O103, O111, O121 and O145.

One of the challenges with E. coli O121 in particular is that it is not biochemically unique. Therefore it is difficult to isolate from other STEC strains using conventional culture methods, whereas the use of IMS supports the specific isolation of E. coli O121.

Immunomagnetic separation is now written into US Department of Agriculture (USDA) methodology for the detection and isolation of non-O157 Shiga Toxin-Producing (STEC) E. coli in meat products and so there is renewed emphasis in the use of this highly effective technique.

Lab M's expertise in immunomagnetic separation dates back many years and Captivate™ is one of the company's best selling product ranges around the world. As well as producing specific sets of antibody-coated paramagnetic particles for separating and concentrating targeted microorganisms, the company also offers a highly respected consultancy and custom coating service.

For further details visit www.labm.com