Rapid urease test
Rapid Urease Test
The Rapid Urease Test (pronounced: /ˈræpɪd jʊəˈriːs tɛst/) is a quick biochemical test used to identify bacteria capable of hydrolyzing urea using the enzyme urease.
Etymology
The term "Rapid Urease Test" is derived from the speed of the test and the enzyme it tests for. "Rapid" (from Latin rapidus, meaning "swift") refers to the quick nature of the test. "Urease" (from German Harnstoff, "urea" + -ase, enzyme suffix) is the enzyme that the test identifies. "Test" (from Old French test, "small pot") refers to the method of examination.
Procedure
The Rapid Urease Test involves the introduction of a urea-containing substance to a bacterial culture. If the bacteria present can produce urease, the urea is hydrolyzed to produce ammonia and carbon dioxide. This reaction raises the pH of the medium, changing the color of a pH indicator in the medium and indicating a positive result.
Related Terms
- Urease: The enzyme that hydrolyzes urea into ammonia and carbon dioxide.
- Urea: A compound that is hydrolyzed by urease.
- Ammonia: A product of urea hydrolysis.
- Carbon Dioxide: A product of urea hydrolysis.
- pH: A measure of acidity or alkalinity, which changes in the presence of urease activity.
- Biochemical Test: A type of test used to identify and characterize bacteria, such as the Rapid Urease Test.
Uses
The Rapid Urease Test is commonly used to identify Helicobacter pylori, a bacterium that causes ulcers in the stomach or the first part of the small intestine. It can also be used to identify other urease-producing bacteria, such as Proteus, Klebsiella, and Ureaplasma species.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Rapid urease test
- Wikipedia's article - Rapid urease test
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