Rapid identification of Neisseria gonorrhoeae and Neisseria meningitidis by using enzymatic profiles

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Abstract
The enzymatic profiles of N. gonorrhoeae, N. meningitidis and related species were determined, using a total of 48 chromogenic substrates. Enzyme classes assayed for included glycosidases, aminopeptidases, phosphoamidases, proteases, lipases, esterases, and aryl sulfatase. A final test selection of 10 substrates, based upon their differential and reproducible characteristics, allowed the separation of N. gonorrhoeae and N. meningitidis from each other and from all species tested within 4 h after primary isolation on modified Thayer-Martin medium. The need for subculturing suspect colonies from modified Thayer-Martin medium to chocolate medium with a subsequent loss of 18-24 h of identification is eliminated.