Microbial Databases for Identifications
We’re committed to providing the most accurate identifications to the industries we serve. This commitment requires that we continuously update our validated Accugenix® microbial databases to stay up-to-date with the evolving microbial world, where taxonomic changes and new species are described daily.
Until recently, the genus Bacillus comprised over 500 species. In 2020, there were multiple publications noting large reclassifications and taxonomic changes to the genus Bacillus. While the nomenclature changes seem extensive, involving the renaming of hundreds of Bacillus species into more than 30 new genera, there is no reclassification in the groups of Bacilli that are most familiar and frequently recovered during environmental monitoring – the Bacillus cereus and Bacillus subtilis clades.
- Can I see a summary of the name changes?
- Do you have more information on why reclassification occurs?
- Where can I find a more detailed explanation on taxonomy?
To ensure we continually provide the best identification services and validated microbial databases or MALDI-TOF and sequence databases, we routinely evaluate our identification rate for customers' bacterial and fungal samples. Since our objective is to achieve the highest percentage of species-level identifications, we compare sample microbial sequence data that do not result in a species-level match against a variety of publicly available sequence databases. If a newly described organism is a good match for those sample sequences and is validly named and published, the sequence proceeds to our validated MALDI-TOF and sequence database entry process, where it undergoes extensive testing and review prior to approval and entry into the Accugenix® microbial database.
Why Do Microbial Identification Libraries Matter?
Comparing sample microbial samples from many sources helps us achieve high accuracy rates in species-level identifications.
Validated MALDI-TOF and Sequence Databases for Environmental Isolate Identification
Identification systems are only effective when they reference an accurate and validated microbial database. Our validated MALDI-TOF and sequence databases are renowned for being the most extensive in the industry for environmental microbial contaminants, allowing you to achieve the highest accuracy rate for species identification.
Because we are the industry leader in microbial identification, our scientists have built robust, validated MALDI-TOF and sequence databases that contain the most comprehensive bacterial and fungal entries found in today’s industrial production and research environments, assuring an accurate answer for virtually every sample we sequence.
Leading Technology
Comparative DNA sequencing of the 16S rDNA gene in bacteria and the ITS2 rDNA region in fungi has been proven to be the most accurate and reproducible method for identifying unknown organisms.
The technology is inherently stable, which allows the data to be reproducible. Although the science behind the technology is widely accepted, there are still a number of variables which may impact the implementation and use of this technology to achieve an accurate identification.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Accugenix® Microbial Databases
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What are the sources of bacterial and fungal strains and information in the Accugenix® microbial database development process?
These peer-reviewed scientific journals are some of the most reliable scientific sources for microorganism cultures and taxonomic information:
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How does Charles River approach validation of microbial databases?
The Accugenix® microbial database validation program is designed to be in compliance with current guidelines for equipment, processes, and computerized systems. Our quality system includes a validation plan that specifies:
- Studies or tests to use
- Criteria appropriate to assess outcomes
- Timing of qualification activities
- Responsibilities of relevant departments
- Procedures for documenting and approving the qualifications