Framework for Fast Microbiological Assessment

An evaluation of a relatively new growth-based rapid method that utilizes a membrane filtration workflow coupled with a viability staining technique is featured in a revealing end-user case study in Chapter 8. The chapter’s author provides a review of the technology and evaluates the method’s results. This is followed by a discussion of the system’s applicability when it comes to monitoring mammalian cell cultures, as well as additional benefits the method can offer to biopharmaceutical processors.

In Chapter 9, an optical spectroscopy rapid method supplier details the technical and applicational aspects of its environmental monitoring system and how their technology can help users comply with validation recommendations of USP <1223>. Accuracy, precision, limit of detection/quantification, linearity, range and robustness are some of the parameters that were examined.

Chapters 10 and 11 deliver a comprehensive evaluation of an optical spectroscopy technology for the real-time and continuous monitoring of airborne microorganisms in cleanroom and isolator environments. The narrative, supported with extensive photography, exposes readers to an in-depth study of real-time monitoring during an aseptic fill. Among other things, these chapters detail the transfer of sterilized components, interventions and the reactions to and outcomes of an isolator glove breach.

A rapid method for the release testing of both sterile (sterility testing) and non-sterile products (bioburden assessments) is found in Chapter 12. Here, an ATP bioluminescence technology is validated, and the authors discuss their qualification workflow and results. An end-user’s validation approach for a rapid, growth-based detection system and its application as an alternate sterility test for cellular immunotherapy products is the focus of Chapter 13. Challenges associated with the conventional method are outlined, a discussion followed by user’s approach to feasibility testing, method validation, and navigating the regulatory path for commercial approval.

Chapter 14 contains an informative case study by an end-user of a rapid, solid-phase cytometry technology. The author describes his company’s validation strategy, including accuracy, precision, limit of detection, robustness, ruggedness and the use of statistical models when comparing the results to the acceptance criteria. Additional considerations include the use of stressed cells and matrix effects on the overall validation plan.
An ATP bioluminescent system supplier provides an alternative to the conventional sterility test in Chapter 15. Highlights include validation strategies, the use of challenge microorganisms, system suitability, understanding background values, how to conduct product specific feasibility testing and much more. Chapter 16 focuses on the statistics of validating an alternative sterility test. Subjects include probabilities and multiplicity, limit of detection and a comparison of what is statistically different versus what is statistically equivalent. This is a must read for anyone wanting to validate rapid sterility tests and how to design the studies and use statistics to justify the results.

An overview of a validation approach for a next-generation ATP monitoring technology is covered by Chapter 17. This chapter’s contributor describes the principles associated with the new method and how to evaluate limit of detection and validation strategies for a wide-range of fluid samples. Chapter 18 provides readers with a novel qPCR-based system for the detection of specific microorganisms. An overview of the technology is provided by its supplier and includes a preliminary study on validation parameters, specificity, limit of detection and data analysis.

Detecting Mycoplasma is an important element of downstream biopharmaceutical processing and Chapter 19 addresses the use of rapid methods within this context. These contributors provide an overview of Mycoplasma and the importance of its timely and accurate detection. Additionally, the authors describe traditional and alternative detection methods, and include a case study outlining the use of a nucleic acid amplification platform. A review of regulatory author requirements for nucleic acid amplification systems is also discussed.

A new nucleic acid amplification and microarray-based rapid method for the detection of Mycoplasma is highlighted in Chapter 20. Here, the contributors detail technology workflow and make the case why this method has advantages over traditional methods. Mycoplasma detection regulatory guidelines are also examined which will help those less familiar with the compliance issues associated with this important process element.

Chapter 21 provides an overview of rapid viral detection methods. This chapter’s authors debate classic versus molecular biology approaches and discuss the prospects for viral safety testing. Their experiences with Vesivirus, MVM and other public viral incidents are covered, as well as other topics associated with the future direction of molecular-based detection methods.

Speaking of future directions, Chapter 22 investigates a promising new microbiology technology wave: alternative/ rapid methods for the QC laboratory. Regulations, required skill sets for pharma microbiologists and the microbiological curricula will provide readers with what they need to know about this innovative technological advance.

Finally, Chapter 23 goes into great depth discussing the real-world application of rapid microbiological methods for bioprocessing. Similarly biopharmaceutical manufacturing, regulations are reviewed; as are testing requirements and contamination events which set the stage for evaluating a wide range of rapid method applications.

These are very exciting times for the rapid detection, quantification and characterization of microorganisms. The information presented in Volume 4 of the Encyclopedia of Rapid Microbiological Methods provides the industry with a comprehensive collection of technology reviews and validation strategies designed to encourage today’s microbiologists to move away from centuries-old techniques and to embrace the next generation of novel, more-sensitive and rapid microbial detection platforms. The Encyclopedia will provide a framework for all industry, clinical and government sectors required to evaluate the environment, products, processes and test samples for the presence of microorganisms to embrace the rapid methods that are available today, and what will be coming in the years ahead.

To order Volume 4, contact PDA at https://store.pda.org/ProductCatalog/Product.aspx?ID=1899. For volumes 1-3 go to https://store.pda.org/ProductCatalog/Product.aspx?ID=513.”

About the Author
Dr. Michael J. Miller is an internationally recognized microbiologist and subject matter expert in pharmaceutical microbiology and the design, validation and implementation of rapid microbiological methods. Author of more than 100 technical publications and presentations in the areas of rapid microbiological methods, PAT, ophthalmics, disinfection and sterilization, Dr. Miller is the editor of PDA’s Encyclopedia of Rapid Microbiological Methods; is president of Microbiology Consultants, LLC (http://microbiologyconsultants.com); and maintains http://rapidmicromethods.com, a website dedicated to the advancement of rapid methods. In his current role, Dr. Miller consults with multinational companies in providing technical, quality and regulatory solutions in support of RMMs, sterile and non-sterile pharmaceutical manufacturing, contamination control, isolator technology, validation and microbiological PAT.

Published in the March 2013 issue of Pharmaceutical Manufacturing magazine