MicroBioLogics Joins ATCC Proficiency Standard Program

MANASSAS, Va. — ATCC (American Type Culture Collection) announced that the Saint Cloud, Minn.-based MicroBioLogics has joined the ATCC Proficiency Standard program.

MicroBioLogics, a manufacturer of quality control microbiology products, will use highly tested reference strains from ATCC in the proficiency test panels it provides to its customers worldwide.

ATCC developed the Proficiency Standard Program to provide authenticated microorganisms and other biological materials for use in the manufacture of laboratory proficiency test panels.

“A successful qualified, proven proficiency testing program begins with reference strains that are defined to the genus and species level. Adding MicroBioLogics to the ATCC Proficiency Standard Program underscores the importance of quality samples for proficiency testing,” said Liz Kerrigan, ATCC’s director of standards and certification in microbiology, biodefense and emerging infections.

Launched in October 2006, the ATCC Proficiency Standard Program works to improve the laboratory proficiency testing (PT) system by raising the quality and consistency of the microorganisms and biological materials used in PT samples. In addition, the program works with PT providers and manufacturers to qualify microorganisms for biosafety level before being included in a PT panel and providing traceability of the PT sample materials.

ATCC proficiency test standard materials are produced specifically for the purpose of inclusion in proficiency test panels. They are tested for confirmation of identity, viability and purity, and each vial of material is individually labeled to allow full traceability from production to end-use.

“Successful performance in an external PT program is a key indicator of high laboratory quality,” said Robert C. Coborn, MicroBioLogics’ CEO. “ATCC contributes to valid PT programs by ensuring the authenticity of the sample materials.”