Bile Esculin Azide Agar

Bile Esculin Azide Agar (7133)

Intended Use:
Bile Esculin Azide Agar is expertly formulated for the selective isolation and differentiation of group D streptococci, ensuring precise identification in laboratory settings.

Product Summary and Explanation:

Bile Esculin Azide Agar is a refined version of the medium introduced by Isenberg and Isenberg, Goldberg, and Sampson. This innovative formula includes the addition of sodium azide while notably reducing the concentration of bile salts, enhancing the medium's selectivity without sacrificing growth performance. It promotes rapid growth and superior recovery of group D streptococci, making it an invaluable tool in microbiological diagnostics.

The molecular taxonomy of the Streptococcus genus has led to the reclassification of enterococci, once categorized as group D streptococci, into their own genus. The hallmark of these organisms—and their ability to hydrolyze esculin in the presence of bile—serves as a key indicator in distinguishing enterococci from other streptococci. Research has shown that a positive response on Bile Esculin Agar correlates significantly with the Lancefield serological grouping system.

Notable studies by Facklam and Moody highlight the efficacy of the bile esculin test as a reliable method for identifying group D streptococci, differentiating them effectively from non-group D strains. Additionally, evaluations conducted by Sabbaj, Sutter, and Finegold demonstrate the superior selectivity and sensitivity of Bile Esculin Azide Agar for enumerating presumptive group D streptococci from human fecal samples, particularly emphasizing its effectiveness in isolating S. bovis without the need for specialized incubation conditions.

Key Features:

• Selective medium for group D streptococci isolation and differentiation
• Enhanced selectivity due to sodium azide addition
• Rapid growth support for efficient recovery
• Proven efficacy in differentiating enterococci

Specifications: