Remel™ McClung-Toabe Agar Base

Isolate and differentiate Clostridium spp. using Thermo Scientific™ Remel™ McClung-Toabe Agar (Anaerobic Lecithin-Lipase Agar) (Dehydrated) supplemented with Egg yolk suspension (50%) R450290 or R450291. In 1947, McClung and Toabe developed this differential plating medium to detect lecithinase and lipase production by Clostridium spp¹. This agar was further modified by Dowell and Hawkins to selectively isolate and differentiate certain obligately anaerobic bacteria².

Use McClung-Toabe Agar to isolate and differentiate Clostridium spp.

Clostridium spp. produce the enzymes lecithinase and lipase. Egg yolk suspension (50%) added to the medium serves as the substrate to detect lecithinase and lipase activity³. Lecithinase degrades lecithin and produces an insoluble, opaque precipitate in the medium surrounding growth⁴. Lipase breaks down free fats in the egg yolk forming in an iridescent sheen on the colony surface.

This medium contains gelatin peptone that supplies amino acids and other nitrogenous compounds necessary for the growth of anaerobic bacteria. Dextrose serves as an energy source. Egg yolk serves as a substrate for detection of lecithinase and lipase activity³ and reduces the toxic effect of organic peroxides which may accumulate in the medium. Agar is the solidifying agent.

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