Virus LENTICULE^® Discs - Microbiological Reference Material for Internal Quality Control

Applications:

• as qualitative or quantitative control strains for routine food, water and environmental testing
• for method development and validations
• for use in research studies
• for training and educational purposes

In partnership with the Centre for Environment, Fisheries & Aquaculture Science (Cefas), PHE provides reference materials (RMs) for norovirus (genogroups I and II) and hepatitis A virus.

The discs consist of viruses in a solid water-soluble matrix that is stable for at least one year from manufacture, easy to use and suitable for a wide range of applications. The LENTICULE discs must be stored at -20°C ± 5°C, although short periods at ambient temperature such as during transportation, does not affect viability. All LENTICULE discs are supplied with a minimum expiry date of three months from date of purchase. Each pack of 10 LENTICULE discs comes with easy-to-follow instructions; all orders will be supplied from a single batch.

The RMs are supplied with a certificate of analysis which gives reference values. These values are generated using a real time RT-PCR using Cefas’ ISO 17025 accredited procedures for virus quantification based upon ISO 15216-1 (Method for Quantification). Reference values are generated using a real time RT-PCR using Cefas’ ISO 17025 accredited procedures for virus quantification based on ISO 15216-1 (Method for Quantification).

The NCTC and NCPF LENTICULE discs are now produced by Merck (previously Sigma-Aldrich). Please visit their website to search the product listings.

Introduction to reference materials for norovirus and hepatitis A virus

Import Permits

For delivery to the USA a CDC import permit is required. For delivery to Canada an import permit from Health Canada is required. 

LENTICULE is a trade mark of Public Health England. The method of preparation and the LENTICULE discs themselves are subject to the International Patent Application published as WO 01/05941.