nitrocefina

Nitrocefina is a synthetic chromogenic substrate used in microbiology for the rapid detection of beta-lactamase producing bacteria. Beta-lactamases are enzymes produced by some bacteria that can break down beta-lactam antibiotics, such as penicillin and cephalosporins, rendering them ineffective. This enzymatic activity is a major cause of antibiotic resistance.

The nitrocefina test relies on the principle that when nitrocefina is exposed to beta-lactamase, the enzyme hydrolyzes the molecule. This hydrolysis results in a color change, typically from a pale yellow to a red or pink color. This rapid color change allows for the identification of beta-lactamase producing bacteria within minutes, often without the need for traditional overnight incubation.

To perform the test, a bacterial colony is typically applied to a specialized disc impregnated with nitrocefina. If beta-lactamase is present, the disc will change color. The nitrocefina test is particularly useful for screening common bacterial pathogens and can aid in guiding antimicrobial therapy by quickly identifying resistance to beta-lactam antibiotics. It is a valuable tool in clinical microbiology laboratories for rapid susceptibility testing and infection control.