Urease Strips

This test for urease was originally designed for the detection of Proteus, but has also been found to work very well with Helicobacter species which contain a very powerful urease. Urease Strips demonstrate the ability of Proteus and Helicobacter species to hydrolyse rapidly the substrate urea. These organisms characteristically produce large amounts of urease. Each Urease Strip is impregnated with urea solution and the indicator phenol red. Urease breaks down urea releasing ammonia and carbon dioxide. Ammonia causes the pH to rise, resulting in the phenol red changing colour from yellow to pink-red. The reaction is seen more rapidly than is the case with urea broths or slopes. Urease Strips can be used to rapidly identify Proteus species cultured from urine samples, leg ulcer swabs, or ear swabs, distinguishing them from other non-lactose fermenters such as Salmonella, Shigella, and Pseudomonas. Urease Strips will also confirm the presence of Helicobacter in colonies isolated from stomach ulcer material.

Description: Paper strip impregnated with urea and indicator

Method of use: Using wire or plastic loop, touch 2 or 3 colonies of test organism on agar medium. Smear organism onto strip. Positive result is indicated within 2 minutes by smeared area turning from yellow colour to pink/red with diffuse halo around edge of zone.

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