Abstract: A method for the preparation of a labelled target-specific virus where the binding sites on the virus are not inactivated by the label material. And a three-step process for detection of a targeted microorganism, the first step comprising contacting of labelled target-specific virus with a sample suspected of containing a target microorganism, the second step comprising the capture of the labelled virus/microorganism complexes onto a solid matrix, and the third step comprising the detection of said complexes on the solid matrix. The process is highly sensitive and can be used for rapid detection of target microorganisms in clinical, food, pharmaceutical, cosmetic and environmental samples. The invention further concerns a device and a kit based on the inventive process.

Abstract: This invention relates to a transfer mechanism for microorganisms and more specifically, to a device for duplicating a growth pattern of microorganisms. The apparatus comprises a body and a transfer material on one surface of the body. The transfer material is brought into contact with a primary medium having a growth of microorganisms on the surface thereof, and transfers that growth to at least one secondary medium. The apparatus is particularly suitable for use with a hydrophobic grid membrane filter. This apparatus replaces slow and cumbersome methods for transferring microorganisms from a primary medium to a secondary medium and is an automated and efficient apparatus to effect such transfer. This device makes it now possible to transfer and duplicate the colonies of microorganisms growing on a hydrophobic grid membrane filter to fresh or different culture media.