Fluorimetric Detection of a Bacillus stearothermophilus Spore-Bound Enzyme, α- d -Glucosidase, for Rapid Indication of Flash Sterilization Failure

A biological indicator based on fluorimetric detection within 60 min of a Bacillus stearothermophilus spore-bound enzyme, alpha-d-glucosidase, has been developed. Results indicate that the enzyme survived slightly longer than spores observed after 24 h of incubation. The new system shows promise for evaluating flash sterilization cycles within 60 min compared with conventional 24-h systems.