Endotoxin analysis
Solids
Determination of endotoxins in solid samples and materials following suitable sample preparation and according to an agreed test design.
Endotoxin analysis for solid samples and materials
Solid samples can be tested for bacterial endotoxins depending on the material, application and enquiry. The samples are prepared using a suitable procedure so that their endotoxin content can be determined analytically.
Depending on the sample and matrix, endotoxin determination in solids uses a kinetic Limulus amoebocyte lysate (LAL) assay: either turbidimetric (Turbi-LAL) or chromogenic (Chromo-LAL). Testing may be relevant to materials, filters, powders, granules or other solid samples for product-, process- or hygiene-related investigations.
A suitable testing approach depends on the sample type, matrix, expected endotoxin content and methodological feasibility. Potential effects of the sample matrix are taken into account when selecting and evaluating the test design.
Solids & sample preparation
Testing tailored to the material, matrix and enquiry
For solid samples, sample preparation is an essential part of endotoxin analysis. Depending on the sample, we can assess how endotoxins can be transferred from the material into a form suitable for analysis.
The analytical assessment depends on factors such as material properties, solubility, particle load, potential matrix effects and how the results need to be expressed. The scope of testing is therefore agreed in advance to suit the specific enquiry.
For unknown or particularly challenging samples, a technical feasibility assessment may be useful before a final test design is established.
Where needed, Glucashield® is used to suppress interference caused by (1→3)-β-D-glucans in the LAL assay. Additional glucan testing can be arranged where relevant to the enquiry.
Extraction or sample processing
Solid samples are prepared according to the material and enquiry to enable suitable endotoxin determination.
Accounting for sample effects
Properties such as turbidity, colour, solubility or interfering constituents can influence the test design.
Evaluation according to test design
Results are reported according to the sample type and testing objective, for example in relation to sample mass, the sample as a whole or the extract.
Need endotoxin testing for solid samples?
We can assess which testing approach is suitable for your solid sample, material or specific enquiry.