Description

The 1492V 3M™ Attest™ Super Rapid Readout Biological Indicator is a dual readout biological indicator system specifically designed for super rapid and reliable monitoring of the 132°C 4-minute and 135°C 3-minute Vacuum-Assisted steam sterilization process when used in conjunction with the 3M™ Attest™ Auto‑reader 490.

The self‑contained design includes a carrier with spores of Geobacillus stearothermophilus and a media ampule containing bacteriological growth medium which meets the requirements for growth promoting ability specified in ANSI/AAMI/ISO 11138‑1:2006/®2010. The spore carrier and media ampoule are contained in a plastic vial topped with a brown cap. A chemical process indicator which changes from pink to light brown or darker upon exposure to steam is located on the top of the cap.The 1492V BI utilizes the α‑glucosidase enzyme system, which is generated naturally within growing cells of Geobacillus stearothermophilus. The α‑glucosidase in its active state is detected by measuring the fluorescence produced by the enzymatic hydrolysis of a non‑fluorescent substrate, 4‑methylumbelliferyl‑α‑D‑glucoside (MUG). The resultant fluorescent by‑product, 4‑methylumbelliferone (MU), is detected in the 490 Auto‑reader. The presence of fluorescence within 1 hour of incubation of the 1492V BI in the 490 Auto‑reader indicates a steam sterilization process failure.The 1492V BI can also indicate the presence of G. stearothermophilus organisms by a visual pH color change reaction. Biochemical activity of the G. stearothermophilus organism produces metabolic by‑products that cause the media to change color from purple to yellow which also indicates a steam sterilization process failure. Use of this indication method is optional and is typically restricted to special studies.