Microtest Enhances Analytical Lab Services with Addition of Advanced Microbial Identification System

AGAWAM, MASS. – December 11, 2006 – Microtest (www.microtestlabs.com) has dramatically enhanced their analytical lab services with the installation of a new, advanced technology, MicroSeq® Microbial Identification System. The MicroSeq 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.

Using the MicroSeq system, Microtest technicians can provide precise and reliable bacteria, mycoplasma, and mold identification in a 24-hour time period. As one of the only testing labs in the area with this technology, Microtest is providing their customers with a significant competitive advantage. Traditional bacteria and mold identification lab tests are often less accurate, and require up to a one-week turn around time.

“In the highly competitive biotechnology industry, accuracy and speed cannot be compromised,” stated Dr. Steven Richter, Microtest President. “Our new MicroSeq system enables our specialists to provide customers with consistent and rapid results that, unlike previous equipment, ensures that the issues and concerns that prompted our clients to undertake their testing are properly analyzed and resolved, thus putting their production back on track.”

“Our ability to provide rapid identification helps our customers minimize down-time, which directly affects their bottom-line. When manufacturing is halted or a cleanroom is shut-down and awaiting test results, there is no product going out the door and that translates to an interruption in sales,” said Dr. Richter.

The MicroSeq system is integrated for use across the spectrum of services that Microtest provides. Customers that will benefit most are those that utilize their analytical testing services in:
• Contract Manufacturing
• Pharmaceutical Testing & Validation
• Medical Device Testing & Validation
• Environmental Control and Testing
• Water Validation
• Mold Identification
• Biologics/Virology

The new MicroSeq system is 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 about Microtest’s analytical testing and related services, contact Dennis Champagne, Director of Lab Services, at 1-800-631-1680 or email dchampagne@microtestlabs.com.

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.