It is important that laboratories use control strains from recognised sources to ensure that the strains are fully characterised and authentic this also helps standardise the quality of testing across the country.
Laboratories frequently prepare in house reference stocks of the control strains for daily use. Those reference stocks must be managed carefully to ensure the strains are not sub-cultured (passaged) too frequently because this may lead to genetic variation and/or contamination.
Standards for Microbiology Investigations (UK SMIs)
UK SMIs provide guidelines to ensure consistent, high-quality microbiology practices across laboratories. Find out more.
AMR susceptibility testing strains
In collaboration with AMRHAI, NCTC provides a selection of reference strains with well-defined resistance mechanisms. Find out more.
Pseudomonas aeruginosa Control Strains
Control strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa ensure accuracy in diagnostic testing and antimicrobial susceptibility studies. Learn more.
WHO Control Strains for Neisseria gonorrhoeae Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing
WHO control strains support reliable testing and monitoring of antibiotic resistance in Neisseria gonorrhoeae. Discover more.
