Löwenstein–Jensen

From WikiMD's Food, Medicine & Wellness Encyclopedia

Löwenstein–Jensen medium, often abbreviated as LJ medium, is a type of growth medium specially designed for the mycobacterial species. It is named after the two microbiologists, Friedrich Löwenstein and James Howard Jensen, who developed it.

Composition[edit | edit source]

The Löwenstein–Jensen medium is made up of several components, including:

  • Eggs: These provide a source of protein.
  • Glycerol: This is used as a carbon source.
  • Malachite green: This inhibits the growth of other bacteria and fungi.
  • Minerals and vitamins: These are necessary for the growth of mycobacteria.

Usage[edit | edit source]

The Löwenstein–Jensen medium is primarily used for the isolation and cultivation of Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the bacterium responsible for tuberculosis. It can also be used for other mycobacterial species.

Advantages and Disadvantages[edit | edit source]

The main advantage of the Löwenstein–Jensen medium is its selectivity for mycobacteria. However, it has a slow growth rate and requires a long incubation period.

See Also[edit | edit source]

Löwenstein–Jensen Resources
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD