Description
STbio is a brand name for a food-grade, Halal-certified version of Lactobacilli MRS broth, a culture medium used to grow and enumerate Lactobacillus bacteria. The standard MRS broth formula was developed by de Man, Rogosa, and Sharpe to support the growth of lactobacilli from various sources, including food, dairy products, feces, and the oral cavity.
The classic MRS broth formulation, on which the STbio product is based, provides a rich, selective environment for lactobacilli growth. Its key components and their functions are:
- Peptones, Beef Extract, and Yeast Extract: These provide essential nitrogenous compounds, vitamins (including B-complex), and amino acids for bacterial growth.
- Dextrose (Glucose): A readily fermentable carbohydrate that serves as the main energy source for the bacteria.
- Polysorbate 80 (Tween 80): A surfactant that supplies fatty acids, which are crucial growth factors for lactobacilli.
- Sodium Acetate and Ammonium Citrate: Selective agents that inhibit the growth of competing bacteria, such as gram-negative organisms, molds, and some streptococci.
- Magnesium and Manganese Sulfates: Provide cations essential for bacterial metabolism.
- Dipotassium Phosphate: Serves as a buffering agent to maintain the optimal pH for lactobacilli growth.
