GeneDisc® Rapid Microbiology System

The GeneDisc Rapid Microbiology System provides real-time microbiological data in as little as two hours, compared to days with traditional methods. Already well-established in the Environmental and Food sectors, where current assays target quantitative detection of Legionella, E.coli and Enterococcus spp. in water and detection of pathogenic strains of E. coli, Salmonella and Listeria in food. assays are now available for detection of six specified microorganisms in Biopharmaceutical applications. The system is based on real-time quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction (qPCR) technology. For further information on qPCR, see the 'Further Reading' section below. To learn more about how the GeneDisc Rapid Microbiology System can help in the biopharmaceutical, environmental or food testing areas, click the links below: Biopharmaceutical Applications Environmental Applications Food Testing Applications Additional Information What Is It? How Does It Work? What Are The Benefits? What Is It?

See the GeneDisc Rapid Microbiology System At:  2011 IAFP Annual Meeting Milwaukee, USA (July 31 – August 3, 2011)

The system consists of three key components:

• The GeneDisc DNA Extractor, used for sample preparation
• The GeneDisc Plate - the disposable item in which assays are performed
• The GeneDisc Cycler, which performs the qPCR assay and records the results

How Does It Work?

Step 1:
To perform an assay, samples are filtered. The GeneDisc DNA Extractor is then used to lyse any microorganisms in the sample, and to concentrate and purify the DNA released.

Step 2:
Purified samples are then added to the GeneDisc plate, along with a liquid reagent that suffices for one plate. Single use of this reagent (as opposed to more typical storage and multiple use of reagent reservoirs) ensures accurate and reproducible results by avoiding the time-dependent deterioration of the reagent that can occur with other systems. The plate contains other key reagents that include the appropriate controls for each sample. These reagents are stabilized to ensure reproducible performance and eliminate operator errors that can occur during multiple reagent additions.

Step 3:
The GeneDisc Cycler records the barcode on the liquid reagent and the plate, to select the test method appropriate to the assay being run. Again, this minimizes the possibility of error by eliminating operator intervention in selecting test parameters.

What Are The Benefits?

• Simplicity - minimal user input needed to run tests; patented instrument design enables highly simplified operation
• Speed - results available within hours instead of days (compared with traditional test methods) ensures timely decisions can be taken during manufacturing cycle
• Security - unique, closed system provides reproducible results. Ideal for routine QC operation
• Savings - attractive pricing plus cost savings based on lean manufacturing and improved quality control
• Support - a complete package of training, feasibility studies, IQ/OQ and aftersales service such as instrument servicing, calibration, repair is available

The GeneDisc Rapid Microbiology system provides an alternative to conventional microbiological testing that is extremely simple to use, rapid, convenient and reproducible.

Part Numbers and Accessories

For a full list of part numbers for all GeneDisc products including plates, instruments and consumables, please click here.

Training, Maintenance and Technical Support

Pall provides a comprehensive support package for the GeneDisc Rapid Microbiology system, including preventative maintenance, calibration and servicing, equipment hire, training, feasibility studies, instrument IQ/OQ (and support for PQ) and scientific consultation. Many services and traning sessions can be held either at the customer's own facility or at Pall sites. For more information, please click here to view our current Training, Maintenance and Technical Support offering, or contact us directly to discuss your requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

To learn more about the GeneDisc Rapid Microbiology System, please click here.

Questions and Enquiries

If you have further questions or would like to discuss the GeneDisc Rapid Microbiology System in depth with a Pall specialist, please email us at genedisc@pall.com, or call:

• 1-800-521-1520 (for enquiries from within US/Canada) 
• +41 26 350 53 00 (for enquiries from all other locations)

Further Reading

 Brochure: GeneDisc® Rapid Microbiology System