Virus Collection Using Gelatin Membrane Technology

Sartorius water-soluble gelatin membrane filters are suitable for collecting airborne viruses that cause respiratory illnesses, such as influenza viruses, which include the swine flu virus A (H1N1). This has been shown by studies already performed in 1990 and that are now regaining topicality because of the swine flu pandemic. The Airport MD8 from Sartorius Stedim Biotech uses the gelatin membrane filter method applied in these virus collection studies as gelatin membrane filters have been proven to ensure reliable and accurate results. Among the advantages of the instrument is its high recovery rate achieved for microorganisms and viruses. Organisms collected by air sampling can be cultivated on various culture media, and the solubility of the gelatin filter opens up many further applications, such combination with quick-test systems, quantitative collection of airborne viruses and measurement of extremely high microbe or virus concentrations.