Fungal Identification - yeasts and moulds

Fungi can cause serious issues in manufacturing environments but species level identification can sometimes be challenging. Our standard identification service for yeasts and moulds is GMP compliant and based on the use of the MicroSeq validated fungal database. We can undertake further database searches if required.

We understand that sometimes our customers need results in a hurry and we can offer same or next day interim report for samples received before 10 am. For less urgent samples we offer three and ten day services.

There are two distinct approaches to genotypic identification of fungi: sequencing of the D2 region of the large subunit ribosomal DNA (D2 LSU), and sequencing of either one or both of the internal transcribed spacer regions between the small and large subunit ribosomal RNA genes (ITS).

Our standard service is based on D2 LSU sequencing and analysis using the validated MicroSEQ database.  No commercial databases are exhaustive in their coverage, and sometimes MicroSEQ does not return a species level match. If this occurs we will search additional published (but non-validated) sources. With fungi, additional searches still do not return a species level match. When this occurs we often find a species level identification can be obtained by using the ITS method, and we can offer this as an additional service.

We believe that offering both approaches allows us to deliver a comprehensive service that gives our customers the most reliable species level identification available.

With fungi, additional searches for D2LSU data, sometimes will not return a species level match. When this occurs we often find a species level identification can be obtained by using the ITS method, and we can offer this as an additional service if required. At present this method relies more heavily on the use of data obtained from unvalidated public databases.

We believe that offering both approaches allows us to deliver a comprehensive service that gives our customers the most reliable identification available.

Our standard service is for the identification of fungal isolates. Pure cultures can be sent to us for identification as plates, slopes or broths that have been incubated to produce sufficient growth.   Please complete a sequencing request form and send with isolates to be identified.

We can also accept mixed cultures and other sample formats, such as samples of water, swabs, slimes or contaminated products, but please contact us to discuss the options available prior to submitting them for identification. Same and next day services may not be available for these sample types.

NCIMB does not accept active cultures of dangerous human pathogens or organisms isolated from clinical or diseased plant materials for identification.   We cannot accept isolates known to be greater than ACDP category 2 and ACGM class 1.

For customers shipping from outside of the UK, see our Identification request form for advice on paperwork for customs. Take care to package samples appropriately. Detailed advice on the packaging of isolates is available on request.