What is the role of albumin in concentration procedure for mycobacteria

Albumin is incorporated during the decontamination and concentration of clinical samples for Mycobacterium tuberculosis to play a protective and stabilizing role throughout the process.

1. Protective Effect Against Alkali Damage

• During concentration, harsh chemicals like NaOH are used for decontamination.
• Albumin acts as a protein buffer, coating the mycobacteria and protecting them from alkali-induced lysis or death.
• This ensures greater survival of viable organisms for downstream culture or microscopic detection.

2. Stabilization of Mycobacterial Cell Wall

• The unique lipid-rich cell wall of mycobacteria can be destabilized by harsh reagents or mechanical stress.
• Albumin binds to the surface and maintains membrane integrity, reducing the risk of disruption.

3. Prevention of Cell Clumping and Aggregation

• Mycobacteria have a natural tendency to aggregate, which can reduce smear and culture sensitivity.
• Albumin helps to disperse bacterial cells evenly in suspension, ensuring more representative samples.

4. Enhancement of Recovery During Centrifugation

• By keeping cells in a colloidally stable state, albumin improves sedimentation efficiency during centrifugation.
• The concentrated pellet obtained is richer in viable bacilli, aiding better diagnostic yield.