Antimicrobial Studies

The purpose of antimicrobial studies is to characterize the efficacy of preservatives, antibiotics, or other agents contained within compendial products; determine the antimicrobial activity; and determine the reduction of microorganisms within a specified time period upon exposure to an antimicrobial item or substance.

In Vivo Antimicrobial Studies / Animal Models of Infection

Toxikon offers a state-of-the-art animal facility. Animal models of infection are an invaluable resource for translational research and development and offer efficacy data not available through strictly in vitro approaches. Administration of the challenge, site of infection, and microbial challenge vary according to the product and target claims. The methodology involves inoculating model animals with an indicator microorganism(s) or promoting infection from resident microorganisms and applying product or drug regimen. The result of the microbial injury may be characterized directly by visualization with electron microscopy or quantitative recovery. Additionally, injury may be characterized by the histological effects on surrounding tissues or by quantitation of immune response indicators and compared to untreated controls.

Testing Capabilities

  • Preservative Effectiveness
  • Minimum Inhibitory Concentration
  • Zone of Inhibition
  • Time Kill
  • Anti-Adherence
  • Animal Models of Infection

Testing Categories and Specifications

Test NameSample NeededTurn-Around Time
Preservative Efficacy – USPSample quantity varies per studyApproximate turnaround time is based upon study specific parameters.
Zone of Inhibition – USP/AATCCSample quantity varies per studyApproximate turnaround time is based upon study specific parameters.
Time Kill – ASTMSample quantity varies per studyApproximate turnaround time is based upon study specific parameters.
Disinfectant Efficacy Testing – AOAC/ASTM/USPSample quantity varies per studyApproximate turnaround time is based upon study specific parameters.
Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC)Sample quantity varies per studyApproximate turnaround time is based upon study specific parameters.
Minimum Bactericidal Concentration (MBC)Sample quantity varies per studyApproximate turnaround time is based upon study specific parameters.
Fractional Inhibitory Concentration (FIC)Sample quantity varies per studyApproximate turnaround time is based upon study specific parameters.
Anti-AdherenceSample quantity varies per studyApproximate turnaround time is based upon study specific parameters.
Bacterial Anti-Virulence StudiesSample quantity varies per studyApproximate turnaround time is based upon study specific parameters.
Animal Models of InfectionSample quantity varies per studyApproximate turnaround time is based upon study specific parameters.