GC Agar - Advanced Isolation Medium

Intended Use

GC Agar is specifically formulated for the isolation and cultivation of Neisseria gonorrhoeae and other fastidious organisms. Utilizing hemoglobin and enrichment, this medium is essential for clinical microbiology laboratories focusing on bacterial diagnostics.

Product Summary and Explanation

First introduced in 1947, GC Agar revolutionized the growth kinetics of N. gonorrhoeae, allowing for growth within just 24 hours compared to the previous 48-hour benchmarks established in 1945 by Johnston. This innovation included a reduction in agar content and the incorporation of vital growth factors such as glutamine and cocarboxylase, significantly enhancing microbial recovery.

The formulation has evolved through the years, notably when, in 1964, Thayer and Martin enhanced GC Agar by integrating antibiotics—Polymyxin B and Rostocetin—alongside key supplements. Further refinements led to the formulation of a new solution containing Colistin, Vancomycin, and Nystatin (CVN), thereby improving selective inhibition.

In 1970, the Thayer-Martin Medium underwent modifications resulting in an uptick in agar and glucose content, coupled with the addition of Trimethoprim Lactate (T), subsequently branded as Modified Thayer-Martin (MTM) Medium. Subsequent advancements by Martin and Lewis culminated in the creation of Martin Lewis (ML) Agar, which sought to enhance selectivity by amplifying the concentration of Vancomycin while substituting Nystatin with Anisomycin, ensuring greater antifungal inhibition.

Key Features

• Effective for the isolation of fastidious organisms, particularly N. gonorrhoeae.
• Reduced agar content accelerates growth rates in laboratory settings.
• Inclusion of vital growth factors enhances recovery rates.
• Antibiotic formulations ensure environmental selectivity for accurate diagnostics.

Specifications