Comparison of bacterial strain preservation methods in a diagnostic laboratory

Abstract

The use of microorganisms has been key in solving health problems, in the search for energy sources, as well as in environmental conservation, among others. The study of microorganisms involves the use of live cultures, which must be maintained and conserved. This need has driven the search for methodologies that are useful for the preservation of strains that are of interest. The objective of this work was to compare three different methods of conservation and storage of strains. The results show that the periodic reseeding method is only viable to be used during strain evaluations, the mineral oil method preserves the strains well but is not viable for long periods of time. The freezing method demonstrated that the strains are preserved without alterations for long periods of time. In conclusion, the 3 conservation methods guarantee the survival of the strains, the choice of which will depend on the frequency of use of the cultures.