The Determination of Small Quantities of Bacteria by means of the Biuret Reaction

Abstract

Suspensions of coliform bacteria, when treated with alkaline Cu soln., give a biuret color, the intensity of which is proportional to the quantity of bacteria present. This is a useful micro-method, requiring only 0.5 to 2.5 mg. of protein. This direct protein estimation involves about 3/4 of the total.