Microtest Labs Doubles Microbial Identification, Analytical Services for Medical Device Testing

AGAWAM, MASS. – April 22, 2009 – Microtest Laboratories (www.microtestlabs.com) has doubled their microbial identification and analytical services for use in its medical device testing services with the purchase of an additional MicroSeq® Microbial Identification System.

The MicroSeq® Microbial Identification System is a state-of-the-art DNA sequence-based system that enables Microtest technicians to more quickly and accurately identify bacteria isolates that are not viable or easily identified.

“With the purchase of our second MicroSeq system, we are enhancing our existing medical device testing services by doubling our microbial identification and analytical capacity and ability to service our clients,” stated Dr. Steven Richter, Microtest President and Chief Scientific Officer.

“As one of the only testing labs in the area with this technology, we are providing our customers with a significant competitive advantage,” he said.

Using the MicroSeq system, Microtest technicians can provide precise and reliable bacteria, mycoplasma, and mold identification in a 24-hour time period. Traditional bacteria and mold identification lab tests are often less accurate, and require up to a one-week turnaround time.

“To successfully compete in today’s highly competitive environment of medical device manufacturing, accuracy and speed cannot be compromised,” stated Dr. Richter. “Our ability to provide rapid identification helps our customers minimize down-time, which directly affects their bottom-line. When manufacturing is halted or a clean room is shut-down and awaiting test results, there is no product going out the door and that translates to an interruption in sales.”

The MicroSeq systems are 99% reliable with repeatable results, and is especially beneficial for companies with pharmaceutical and medical device manufacturing applications. Made by the Applera Corporation, the MicroSeq Microbial Identification System is the most accurate and rapid bacterial identification system available today.

For more information, download the white paper, “The Microbial ID Breakthrough: How DNA Sequencing Services Help Prevent Catastrophic Clean Room Shutdowns,” at http://www.microtestlabs.com/microseq.

Microtest offers a complete array of medical device testing services, including Gamma/ethylene oxide (EO) sterilization validation, and reusables, endotoxin, and sterility testing and related services. Microtest’s facilities are ISO 9001 and ISO 17025:2005 certified, and U.S. FDA-regulated, meeting all GLP/GMP standards.

Learn about all of company’s services by visiting Microtest at BIOMEDevice in Boston, at booth no. 1023, April 22-23, 2009. Or, visit the Microtest website www.microtestlabs.com/medical-device-testing or call 1-800-631-1680.

About Microtest
Microtest is a leader in testing services and contract manufacturing for the medical device, pharmaceutical, and biotechnology industries. Based in Agawam, Massachusetts, USA, the company's expertise and flexible processes enhance product safety and security, accelerate time to market, and minimize supply chain disruption. For more information, visit www.microtestlabs.com or call 1-413-786-1680 or toll-free 1-800-631-1680.