Ornithine Decarboxylase Broth

Ornithine Decarboxylase Broth is recommended for detection of the ability of microorganisms to decarboxylate ornithine. The composition and performance of this media are as per specifications laid down in in ISO /TS 22964: 2017. This medium is based on the Taylors modification and is recommended by the ISO Committee for the detection of ornithine decarboxylation by Yersinia enterocolitica. If the organism produces the appropriate enzyme, i.e. decarboxylase, the amino acid (ornithine) in the medium is degraded, yielding a corresponding amine. Decarboxylation of ornithine yields putrescine. The production of this amine elevates the pH of the medium towards alkalinity, changing the color of the indicator from yellow to purple or violet. If the organism does not produce the appropriate enzyme,the medium remains acidic or yellow in colour.