MIC Determination

The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) against microorganisms is generally defined as the lowest concentration of a substance capable of inhibiting the growth of a germ, that means there is no macroscopically visible growth. The MIC test is used in the development of new pharmaceuticals or products to determine the biocidal effect of a substance or product. The minimum inhibitory concentration is, for example, the basis of statements on the effectiveness of antibiotics or the resistance of a specific pathogen.

The substance or product to be examined is tested against an application-based range of microorganisms in order to examine, for example, its impact on the typical skin flora or the organotypic flora of a target patient. The ingredients of the respective formulation can be tested, either individually or in combination, from the same perspective. Also substances or formulations with broadband biocidal effect, which can subsequently be used for different products, can be tested. One example of this is the testing of the possible application concentration of preservatives that are subsequently used in different formulations. To determine the effectiveness of a preservative in the actual formulation, a preservation challenge test is required which is offered by Labor LS as well.

For the MIC determination, Labor LS offers bouillon dilution method, agar diffusion method as well as agar dilution method, tailoring the test to the respective customer's requirements and applications.