Culture vessel, culture kit, and method for performing dropper test of microorganism

Abstract

Provided are a culture vessel and a culture kit which can eliminate the complexity of a test operation, and a method for performing a drop-out test of a microorganism. This culture container is used in a drop fungus test of microorganisms, and is provided with a container main body part capable of accommodating a culture solution therein, the container main body part having a top part, a trunk part, and a bottom part, the top part being provided with a first opening part, the trunk part being provided with a second opening part, and the bottom part being provided with a second opening part. The culture container is characterized in that the culture container is provided with a first opening which is configured so as to receive the microorganisms falling from the environment above the culture container into the container main body, and in that the top part or the trunk part is provided with a second opening which is configured so as to inject the culture solution, and in that the first opening is formed so as to receive the microorganisms falling from the environment above the culture container into the container main body part and the second opening is formed so as to inject the culture solution into the container main body part. The culture container is further provided with a first lid for closing the first opening and a second lid for closing the second opening.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a culture container and a culture kit used for testing falling bacteria of microorganisms, and a method for testing falling bacteria of microorganisms using the culture container. Background Art

[0002] The drop bacteria method, also known as the Koch method, is a method for detecting microorganisms in the environment. This method involves culturing the microorganisms that fall onto the surface of an agar medium (plate medium) of a certain size after it has been left open for a certain period of time. The colonies of the grown microorganisms are then used to detect the presence of microorganisms. In this method, the number of grown colonies is measured as the bacterial count per a certain period of time, and the colonies are then picked (fishing) to perform tests such as confirming the characteristics of the cultured microorganisms. Figure 9 This is a flowchart schematically showing the flow of a fallen bacteria inspection using the conventional fallen bacteria method. Figure 10 (a) to (d) are schematic process diagrams showing a falling bacteria inspection using a conventional falling bacteria method.

[0003] In the conventional falling bacteria test using the falling bacteria method, Figure 9 As shown in the flowchart, first, Figure 10 As shown in (a), a petri dish containing agar culture medium is placed at an inspection position with its lid open (the petri dish is placed at the inspection position). Next, from the time the petri dish is placed at the inspection position until a certain time has passed, the petri dish is kept at the inspection position with its lid open. This causes microorganisms in the environment above the petri dish to fall onto the agar culture medium in the petri dish. Then, as shown in FIG. Figure 10 As shown in (a) and (b), with the lid facing downward, the culture dish is placed downward so that the agar medium is on the upper side, and the lid of the culture dish is closed. In this way, microorganisms are collected (collection of microorganisms). Next, the culture dish with the lid closed is placed in an incubator (not shown) set to a temperature range required for the cultivation of the microorganisms to be cultured and kept for a given time, thereby Figure 10 As shown in (c), microorganisms are cultured in agar medium in a petri dish (culture of microorganisms). Then, the number of colonies of the cultured microorganisms is counted (counting of the number of colonies). Figure 10 As shown in (d), a platinum loop is used to pick up the colonies (picking of colonies). Next, the picked colonies are used to perform tests such as confirmation of the characteristics of the cultured microorganisms (microorganism inspection).

[0004] As a technology related to the cultivation and inspection of microorganisms in the past such as the above-mentioned drop bacteria inspection, for example, a technology related to a film-shaped culture medium for cultivating microorganisms is known (Patent Document 1). According to this technology, the time for preparing the culture medium can be saved, and a culture medium with good storage properties is provided, which is space-saving and saves waste.

[0005] Prior art literature

[0006] Patent Literature

[0007] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2007-20434 Summary of the Invention

[0008] Technical problem solved by the invention

[0009] In conventional fallen bacteria testing, as described above, colonies must be picked for testing, such as confirming the characteristics of cultured microorganisms. This is a complex operation that takes time and effort.

[0010] The present invention is completed in view of such points, and its purpose is to provide a culture container and culture kit for microbial dropped bacteria inspection and a method for performing microbial dropped bacteria inspection, which are culture containers and culture kits and a method for performing microbial dropped bacteria inspection that can eliminate the complexity of the inspection operation.

[0011] Technical means to solve the problem

[0012] In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, the culture container of the present invention is a culture container used in the inspection of fallen bacteria of microorganisms, which has a container main body capable of accommodating culture liquid inside, the container main body having a top, a main body and a bottom, a first opening being provided at the top, the first opening being configured to receive the microorganisms fallen from the environment above the culture container into the interior of the container main body, a second opening being provided at the top or the main body, the second opening being configured to inject the culture liquid, and the culture container further having a first cover for closing the first opening and a second cover for closing the second opening.

[0013] In addition, the culture kit of the present invention is a culture kit used for the detection of falling bacteria of microorganisms, which comprises: the culture container; the microorganism collection filter; and an attachment material, which is used to attach the microorganism collection filter to the bottom surface inside the container body of the culture container to the area where the microorganisms fall through the first opening.

[0014] In addition, the method for performing fallen bacteria inspection of microorganisms of the present invention is a method for performing fallen bacteria inspection of microorganisms using the culture container, which comprises: a configuration process, in which the culture container is configured at an inspection position with the first opening portion opened; a collection process, in which from the time the culture container is configured at the inspection position until a certain time has passed, the microorganisms in the environment on the culture container are allowed to drop to the interior of the container main body through the first opening portion, thereby collecting the microorganisms; a supply process, in which after collecting the microorganisms, a liquid culture medium is supplied to the interior of the container main body through the first opening portion or the second opening portion; a process for obtaining a culture solution, in which the microorganisms are cultured in the liquid culture medium supplied to the interior of the container main body to obtain a culture solution; a removal process, in which the culture solution is removed from the interior of the container main body through the second opening portion to the outside of the culture container; and an inspection process, in which the culture solution removed to the outside is used to inspect the microorganisms.

[0015] Effects of the Invention

[0016] According to the present invention, the complexity of the inspection operation can be eliminated. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] [ Figure 1 ](a) and (b) are schematic three-dimensional views respectively illustrating the state of collecting microorganisms in the culture container of the first embodiment and the state of taking the culture solution out to the outside.

[0018] [ Figure 2 ] is a flowchart schematically showing the process of the method for performing fallen bacteria inspection of microorganisms in the first embodiment.

[0019] [ Figure 3 ](a) and (b) are schematic three-dimensional views respectively illustrating the state of collecting microorganisms in the culture container of the second embodiment and the state of taking the culture solution out to the outside.

[0020] [ Figure 4 ](a) and (b) are schematic three-dimensional views respectively illustrating an initial state of the culture kit according to the third embodiment and a state when the culture solution is taken out to the outside.

[0021] [ Figure 5 ] is a schematic three-dimensional view of a culture container showing an example of a modification of the first embodiment.

[0022] [ Figure 6 ] is a schematic three-dimensional view of a culture container showing an example of a modification of the second embodiment.

[0023] [ Figure 7] is a schematic three-dimensional diagram of a culture kit showing an example of a modification of the third embodiment.

[0024] [ Figure 8 ](a) and (b) are schematic perspective views showing the second cover in the culture container according to a modified example of the first embodiment.

[0025] [ Figure 9 ] is a flowchart that schematically shows the process of fallen bacteria inspection using the conventional fallen bacteria method.

[0026] [ Figure 10 ](a) to (d) are schematic process diagrams showing the fallen bacteria inspection using the conventional fallen bacteria method. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0027] Hereinafter, embodiments of the culture container and culture kit of the present invention and the method for performing a falling bacteria inspection of microorganisms will be described.

[0028] [First embodiment]

[0029] First, a culture container and a method for performing a fallen microorganism inspection according to a first embodiment will be described. Figure 1 (a) and (b) are schematic perspective views illustrating, respectively, a state of collecting microorganisms in the culture container according to the first embodiment and a state of taking out a culture solution to the outside.

[0030] like Figure 1 As shown in (a) and (b), the culture container 1 of the first embodiment is a culture container 1 used for the drop bacteria inspection of microorganisms, and has a container body 2 capable of containing a culture solution inside. The container body 2 has a top (upper part) 4, a main body 6, and a bottom 8. The general shape of the container body 2 is a flat prism with the surface 4s of the top 4 and the surface 8s of the bottom 8 as the bottom surface, and the surface 6s of the main body 6 as the side surface. The general shape of the top 4 and the bottom 8 is the same plate-like shape with the corner of one short side of the rectangle cut off. The general shape of the main body 6 is a shape formed by connecting multiple rectangular plate-like parts 6p respectively connecting multiple sides of the top 4 and the corresponding sides of the bottom 8 along the circumferential direction. A first opening 10 is provided at the top 4. The first opening is configured to receive microorganisms that have fallen from the environment above the culture container 1 into the interior of the container body 2. The first opening 10 is in the shape of a rectangle with its short side and long side parallel to the long side and short side of the top 4, respectively. Among the multiple plate-like members 6p of the trunk 6, a plate-like member 6p on the short side of the corner-cut side connecting the top 4 and the bottom 8 is provided with a neck 6n protruding outward from its surface 6ps. The neck 6n of the trunk 6 is provided with an openable and closable second opening 12, which is configured for injecting a culture medium.

[0031] The culture container 1 further includes a sliding cover 20 as a first cover for opening and closing the first opening 10. The sliding cover 20 opens and closes the first opening 10 by sliding and moving in a direction along the short side of the first opening 10. The sliding cover 20 includes a cover body 20b and a grip 20g. The cover body 20b includes a rectangular plate-shaped cover portion 20p and two sliding portions 20s extending from the two short sides of the cover portion 20p to the opposite side of the cover portion 20p. The short side and long side of the cover portion 20p are respectively parallel to the short side and long side of the first opening 10. The short side of the cover portion 20p is slightly longer than the short side of the first opening 10, and the long side of the cover portion 20p is the same size as the long side of the first opening 10, so that the first opening 10 can be completely closed by the cover portion 20p. The sliding portion 20s is shaped like a rectangular plate, with its two short sides extending parallel to the two long sides of the cover 20p, and the long side of the sliding portion 20s on the cover 20p side being the same as the short side of the cover 20p. The grip portion 20g protrudes upward from the surface of the cover 20p on its long side on the second opening 12 side of the cover 20p.

[0032] Two guide portions 2g are provided on the back surface 4r of the top portion 4 of the container body 2, each guiding the two sliding portions 20s of the sliding cover 20. This allows the sliding cover 20 to slide and move toward the second opening 12 and the opposite side thereof, along the short sides of the first opening 10. The two guide portions 2g extend parallel to the short sides of the first opening 10 of the top portion 4 from the ends of the short sides of the first opening 10 on the second opening 12 side to the short sides of the top portion 4 on the opposite side of the second opening 12. The guide portions 2g are rectangular plates with their short sides parallel to the long sides of the first opening 10 and their long sides parallel to the short sides of the first opening 10. The guide portions 2g are positioned so that, when viewed from above, the entire short side of the first opening 10 overlaps with the long side of the guide portions 2g on the first opening 10 side. The long side of the guide portions 2g on the opposite side of the first opening 10 is fixed to the back surface 4r of the top portion 4. The sliding cover 20 has the cover body 20b arranged inside the container body 2 in such a manner that the two sliding portions 20s are respectively sandwiched between the back surface 4r of the top 4 and the two guide portions 2g, and the grip portion 20g protrudes to the outside of the container body 2 through the first opening 10.

[0033] The culture container 1 further includes a lid 16 (second lid) that can be attached to and removed from the second opening 12 so as to open and close the second opening 12. The lid 16 has screw threads (not shown) on its inner side, and screw threads 6nc on its outer side of the neck 6n where the second opening 12 is located. These screw threads engage with each other. After the lid 16 is placed over the neck 6n, the threads of the lid 16 engage with the threads 6nc of the neck 6n, and the lid 16 is tightened, thereby attaching the lid 16 to the second opening 12 and closing the second opening 12. From this state, the lid 16 can be loosened by reversely winding it, allowing the lid 16 to be removed from the second opening 12 and opening the second opening 12.

[0034] The culture container 1 further includes a microorganism capture filter 30 attached to the bottom surface of the interior of the container body 2 in the area where the microorganisms fall through the first opening 10. The microorganism capture filter 30 is a membrane filter having a pore size of 0.45 μm or less, and is made of a material and structure that does not adversely affect the microorganisms.

[0035] In the method for performing a fallen bacteria inspection of microorganisms according to the first embodiment, a fallen bacteria inspection of microorganisms is performed using the culture container 1 according to the first embodiment. Figure 2 This is a flowchart schematically showing the flow of the method for performing a fallen microorganism inspection according to the first embodiment.

[0036] In the method of the first embodiment, Figure 2 As shown in the flowchart, first, Figure 1 As shown in (a), after the lid 16 is attached to the second opening 12 of the culture container 1, closing the second opening 12, the sliding lid 20 is slid and moved toward the side opposite the second opening 12, opening the first opening 10, and placing the culture container 1 in the inspection position (placement of the culture container in the inspection position). Subsequently, the culture container 1 is maintained in the inspection position from the time it is placed in the inspection position until a certain period of time has passed. As a result, microorganisms in the environment above the culture container 1 fall through the first opening 10 onto the microorganism capture filter 30 within the container body 2 and are captured by the microorganism capture filter 30. Then, the sliding lid 20 is slid and moved toward the second opening 12, temporarily closing the first opening 10. Thus, microorganisms are collected within the container body 2 (collection of microorganisms).

[0037] Next, the sliding cover 20 is slid and moved toward the side opposite to the second opening 12, reopening the first opening 10. Liquid culture medium (not shown) is then supplied into the interior of the container body 2 through the first opening 10 (supply of liquid culture medium). At this time, for example, approximately one-quarter of the total volume of the container body 2 is supplied to the interior of the container body 2, so that the entire microorganism capture filter 30 is immersed in the liquid culture medium. The supply of liquid culture medium causes the microorganisms captured by the microorganism capture filter 30 to separate from the microorganism capture filter 30 and become suspended in the liquid culture medium.

[0038] Next, by sliding and moving the sliding cover 20 toward the second opening 12 to close the first opening 10, the culture container 1 is placed in an incubator (not shown) set to a temperature range required for culturing the microorganisms to be cultured and maintained for a given time, thereby culturing the microorganisms in the liquid culture medium supplied to the interior of the container body 2 to obtain a culture solution (culture of microorganisms).

[0039] Then, if Figure 1 As shown in FIG. 1( b ), by removing the lid 16 from the second opening 12 of the culture container 1, the second opening 12 is opened, and the culture solution is taken out from the interior of the container body 2 through the second opening 12 to the outside of the culture container 1 (taking out the culture solution). In this case, for example, the culture solution is injected from the interior of the container body 2 through the second opening 12 into a test container (not shown) such as a centrifuge tube, and the culture solution is taken out directly into the test container.

[0040] Next, the culture solution removed to the outside is used to inspect the microorganisms (inspection of microorganisms). At this time, as inspection of the microorganisms, confirmation of the characteristics of the microorganisms, genetic inspection, etc. are performed. As a method of genetic inspection of microorganisms, for example, nucleic acids can be extracted from the cultured microorganisms contained in the culture solution removed to an inspection container such as a centrifuge tube, and then the nucleic acids are amplified using PCR methods, etc., and the genes of the amplified nucleic acids are analyzed to identify the microorganisms. As described above, the culture container 1 of the first embodiment is used to perform the fallen bacteria inspection of microorganisms.

[0041] In the culture container 1 of the first embodiment, a first opening 10 is provided at the top 4 of the container body 2. The first opening 10 is configured to receive microorganisms that have fallen from the environment into the interior of the container body 2. Furthermore, an openable and closable second opening 12 is provided at the trunk 6 of the container body 2. The second opening 12 is configured to be used for injecting culture medium. Furthermore, the culture container 1 of the first embodiment includes a sliding cover 20 (first cover) that opens and closes the first opening 10, and a cover 16 (second cover) that can be attached to and removed from the second opening 12 in a manner that allows the second opening 12 to be opened and closed. Thus, in the method for performing a drop bacteria test for microorganisms of the first embodiment, the culture container 1 of the first embodiment can be used to open the first opening 10, allowing microorganisms in the environment to fall through the first opening 10 into the interior of the container body 2, thereby collecting the microorganisms using the drop bacteria method. In addition, after collecting the microorganisms, the liquid culture medium is supplied to the interior of the container body 2 via the first opening 10, and then the culture solution can be obtained by culturing the microorganisms in the liquid culture medium supplied to the interior of the container body 2. In addition, the culture solution can be taken out from the interior of the container body 2 via the second opening 12 to the outside of the culture container 1, and the culture solution taken out to the outside can be used to perform inspections such as confirmation of the characteristics of the microorganisms and genetic testing. Therefore, unlike the previous drop bacteria inspection, there is no need to pick the colonies of the cultured microorganisms for inspections such as confirmation of the characteristics of the microorganisms and genetic testing. In addition, the culture solution can be injected into an inspection container such as a centrifuge tube from the interior of the container body 2 via the second opening 12, and the culture solution can be directly taken out to the inspection container, so there is no need to use a pipette or the like to take the culture solution out of the interior of the container body 2 to the inspection container. Therefore, the complexity of the inspection operation can be eliminated. In addition, the risk of contamination during the handling of the microorganisms used for inspection can be reduced. In addition, even people other than highly professional operators can perform the inspection. Furthermore, since liquid culture is performed instead of solid phase culture when culturing the microorganisms, the culturing time for growing the microorganisms can be shortened, thereby shortening the inspection time.

[0042] In addition, the culture container 1 of the first embodiment further includes a microorganism capture filter 30 attached to the bottom surface of the interior of the container body 2 in the area where microorganisms fall through the first opening 10. Furthermore, the microorganism capture filter 30 is a membrane filter with a pore size of 0.45 μm or less, made of a material that does not adversely affect microorganisms, and having a structure that does not adversely affect microorganisms. Thus, in the method for performing a fallen microbial inspection of the first embodiment, when microorganisms are collected by allowing them to fall through the first opening 10 into the interior of the container body 2, the microorganisms can be captured by the microorganism capture filter 30 as they fall, thereby preventing the collected microorganisms from being destroyed. Consequently, microorganisms can be reliably cultured. Furthermore, since the microorganism capture filter 30 is attached to the area where the microorganisms fall, the position of the microorganism capture filter 30 is prevented from shifting, allowing the microorganisms to reliably fall into and be captured by the microorganism capture filter 30.

[0043] [Second embodiment]

[0044] Next, a culture container and a method for performing a drop microbial test according to a second embodiment will be described, focusing on differences from the first embodiment. Figure 3 (a) and (b) are schematic perspective views illustrating, respectively, a state of collecting microorganisms in the culture container according to the second embodiment and a state of taking out a culture solution to the outside.

[0045] like Figure 3As shown in (a) and (b), the culture container 1 of the second embodiment includes the same container body 2 as the culture container of the first embodiment, except that the first opening 10 is located near the center of the top 4 and the guide portion 2g is not provided. Unlike the culture container of the first embodiment, the culture container 1 of the second embodiment further includes an opening lid 40 as a first lid for opening and closing the first opening 10. The opening lid 40 opens and closes the first opening 10 by rotating a lid 40b toward the side opposite to and toward the top 4, like a door. The opening lid 40 includes a rectangular plate-shaped lid 40b, a hinge 40h connecting one side of the lid 40b to one side of the first opening 10 in the top 4, and a grip 40g. The lid 40b includes a rectangular, plate-shaped lid portion 40p and ribs 40r provided on the surface of the lid portion 40p facing the first opening 10, which engage with the periphery of the first opening 10 of the top portion 4. The culture container 1 of the second embodiment further includes a lid 16 (second lid) similar to that of the culture container of the first embodiment. The culture container 1 of the second embodiment, like the culture container of the first embodiment, further includes a microorganism capture filter 30, which is attached to the bottom surface of the interior of the container body 2 in the area where microorganisms fall through the first opening 10.

[0046] In the method for performing a drop bacteria inspection of microorganisms of the second embodiment, the drop bacteria inspection of microorganisms is performed using the culture container 1 of the second embodiment. In this case, when the first opening portion 10 is opened, the cover 40b of the open lid 40 is rotated toward the opposite side of the top 4 with the hinge 40h as the axis. In addition, when the first opening portion 10 is closed, the cover 40b of the open lid 40 is rotated toward the top 4 side with the hinge 40h as the axis, so that the rib 40r of the cover 40b is fitted with the surrounding portion of the first opening portion 10 of the top 4. Except for these aspects, the drop bacteria inspection of microorganisms is performed in the same manner as the method for performing a drop bacteria inspection of microorganisms of the first embodiment. Therefore, in the culture container and the method for performing a drop bacteria inspection of microorganisms of the second embodiment, the same effects as those of the first embodiment can be obtained.

[0047] [Third embodiment]

[0048] Next, a culture kit and a method for performing a drop microbial test according to a third embodiment will be described, focusing on differences from the first embodiment. Figure 4 (a) and (b) are schematic perspective views illustrating, respectively, a state of collecting microorganisms and a state of taking out a culture solution in the culture kit of the third embodiment.

[0049] like Figure 4As shown in Figures (a) and (b), a culture kit 100 according to the third embodiment comprises a culture container 1; a microorganism-capturing filter 30; and an adhesive material 32 for attaching the microorganism-capturing filter 30 to the bottom surface of the container body 2 of the culture container 1, in an area where microorganisms fall through the first opening 10. The culture container 1 comprises the same container body 2 as the culture container of the first embodiment, except that the first opening 10 is located near the center of the top 4 and that the guide portion 2g is not provided. Unlike the culture container of the first embodiment, the culture container 1 further comprises a thin plate cover 50 as a first cover for opening and closing the first opening 10. The thin plate cover 50 is adhered to the surface 4s of the top 4 so as to cover the first opening 10 and can be peeled off therefrom to open and close the first opening 10. The thin plate cover 50 comprises a rectangular cover sheet 50b sized to cover the first opening 10 and an adhesive seal 50s provided on the outer periphery of the adhered surface of the cover sheet 50b. The culture container 1 further includes a lid 16 (second lid) similar to that of the culture container of the first embodiment. The microorganism capture filter 30 is the same microorganism capture filter 30 as that of the culture container of the first embodiment. The patch 32 is a double-sided adhesive sheet having a base sheet 32s and two adhesive layers 32a provided on each side of the base sheet.

[0050] In the method for performing a drop bacteria inspection of microorganisms according to the third embodiment, a drop bacteria inspection of microorganisms is performed using the culture reagent kit 100 according to the third embodiment. In this case, before the culture container 1 is arranged at the inspection position, a microorganism collection filter 30 is attached to the bottom surface of the interior of the container body 2 of the culture container 1, in the area where the microorganisms fall through the first opening 10, using an attachment material (double-sided adhesive sheet) 32. In addition, when the first opening 10 is closed, the thin plate cover 50 is attached to the surface 4s of the top 4 so as to cover the first opening 10 by adhering the adhesive seal 50s of the thin plate cover 50 to the surrounding portion of the first opening 10 on the surface 4s of the top 4. In addition, when the first opening 10 is opened again after being temporarily closed, the thin plate cover 50 is peeled off from the surface 4s of the top 4 by peeling off the adhesive seal 50s of the thin plate cover 50 from the surface 4s of the top 4. Except for these points, the fallen microorganism inspection is performed in the same manner as the method for inspecting fallen microorganisms of the first embodiment. Therefore, the culture container and the method for inspecting fallen microorganisms of the third embodiment can achieve the same effects as those of the first embodiment.

[0051] [Modification]

[0052] Next, modifications of the first to third embodiments will be described, focusing on differences from the first to third embodiments. Figure 5 This is a schematic perspective view illustrating a culture container according to a modified example of the first embodiment. Figure 6 This is a schematic perspective view illustrating a culture container according to a modified example of the second embodiment. Figure 7 This is a schematic perspective view illustrating a culture kit according to a modified example of the third embodiment.

[0053] like Figure 5 As shown, the culture container 1 of the modified example of the first embodiment differs from the culture container of the first embodiment in that a vent 6h is provided on a plate-like member 6p on the side of the trunk portion 6 of the container body 2 opposite the lid 16 (second opening 12). A hydrophobic filter 60 (a breathable membrane material) is attached to the surface 6ps of the plate-like member 6p to cover the vent 6h. Furthermore, unlike the culture container of the first embodiment, the culture container 1 further comprises a non-breathable lid 70 that opens and closes the vent 6h. The non-breathable lid 70 is a single-sided adhesive sheet comprising a base sheet 70s and an adhesive layer 70a provided on one side of the base sheet 70s. By adhering the adhesive layer 70a of the non-breathable lid 70 to the surface 6ps of the plate-like member 6p, the non-breathable lid 70 can be attached to the surface 6ps of the plate-like member 6p to cover the vent 6h and the hydrophobic filter 60, thereby closing the vent 6h. The vent 6h can be opened by peeling the adhesive layer 70a of the non-air permeable cover 70 from the surface 6ps of the plate-like member 6p.

[0054] In a method for performing a drop bacteria inspection of microorganisms using a culture container 1 of a modified example of the first embodiment, the same effect as the first embodiment can be obtained. In addition, in the method, the culture container 1 is arranged at the inspection position, and when the microorganisms in the environment on the culture container 1 are allowed to fall into the interior of the container body 2 via the first opening 10, the vent 6h is opened, thereby allowing air to flow from the interior of the container body 2 to the outside via the vent 6h. Therefore, microorganisms easily fall into the interior of the container body 2 via the first opening 10. Thus, microorganisms in the environment can be reliably collected. In addition, when collecting aerobic bacteria as microorganisms, when cultivating microorganisms in a liquid culture medium supplied to the interior of the container body 2, the vent 6h can be opened, and air can be brought into the liquid culture medium from the outside of the container body 2 via the vent 6h, without causing the liquid culture medium to flow out from the interior of the container body 2 via the vent 6h. Thus, the cultivation of aerobic bacteria can be promoted. On the other hand, when collecting anaerobic bacteria as microorganisms, when culturing the microorganisms in the liquid culture medium supplied to the interior of the container body 2, the non-air-permeable cover 70 is attached to the surface 6ps of the plate-like member 6p to close the vent 6h, so that air will not enter the liquid culture medium from the outside of the container body 2 through the vent 6h, thereby avoiding obstruction of the cultivation of anaerobic bacteria.

[0055] like Figure 6 As shown, the culture container 1 of the modified example of the second embodiment differs from the culture container of the second embodiment in that it does not include the microorganism capture filter 30. Aside from this, the culture container 1 is identical to the culture container of the second embodiment. In the method for performing a drop bacteria test for microorganisms using the culture container 1 of the modified example of the second embodiment, unlike the second embodiment, when collecting microorganisms by allowing them to fall into the interior of the container body 2 through the first opening 10, the microorganisms are collected by allowing them to fall onto the bottom surface of the interior of the container body 2, rather than being captured by allowing them to fall onto the microorganism capture filter 30. In this case, similar to the method for performing a drop bacteria test for microorganisms in the second embodiment, after collecting the microorganisms, a liquid culture medium can be supplied into the interior of the container body 2 through the first opening 10, and then the microorganisms can be cultured in the liquid culture medium. Therefore, the complexity of the inspection operation can be eliminated. Furthermore, the risk of contamination can be reduced. Furthermore, even people other than highly specialized operators can perform the inspection. Furthermore, since liquid culture is performed instead of solid-phase culture, the inspection time can be shortened.

[0056] like Figure 7As shown, a culture kit 100 according to a modified example of the third embodiment includes a culture container 1 that is different from the culture kit according to the third embodiment. The first opening 10 of the culture container 1 is located on the top 4 near the lid 16 (second opening 12). Furthermore, a vent 6h is provided on the top 4 of the container body 2, on the side opposite the lid 16 (second opening 12). A hydrophobic filter 60 (a breathable membrane material) is attached to the surface 4s of the top 4 to cover the vent 6h. Furthermore, the culture container 1 further includes a non-breathable lid 70 that opens and closes the vent 6h. The non-breathable lid 70 is a single-sided adhesive sheet comprising a base sheet 70s and an adhesive layer 70a provided on one side of the base sheet 70s. By adhering the adhesive layer 70a of the non-air permeable cover 70 to the surface 4s of the top portion 4, the non-air permeable cover 70 is attached to the surface 4s of the top portion 4 so as to cover the vent 6h and the hydrophobic filter 60, thereby closing the vent 6h. Furthermore, by peeling the adhesive layer 70a of the non-air permeable cover 70 from the surface 4s of the top portion 4, the vent 6h can be opened. Other than these aspects, the culture container 1 is the same as the culture container of the third embodiment. In the method for performing a drop microbial test using the culture kit 100 of the modified example of the third embodiment, in addition to the same effects as the third embodiment, the same effects as the modified example of the first embodiment can also be achieved.

[0057] Next, the configurations of the culture container and culture kit according to the embodiment and the method for performing a drop bacteria inspection of microorganisms will be described in further detail.

[0058] 1. Culture container

[0059] The culture container of the embodiment is used for drop bacteria testing of microorganisms. It comprises a container body capable of containing a culture solution. The container body comprises a top, a trunk, and a bottom. The top is provided with a first opening configured to receive microorganisms that have fallen from the environment above the culture container into the interior of the container body. A second opening is provided in the top or trunk for injecting the culture solution. The culture container further comprises a first lid for closing the first opening and a second lid for closing the second opening. Specifically, the culture container is used for both liquid culture of microorganisms and drop bacteria testing.

[0060] The material of the container body is not particularly limited, and examples thereof include PET (polyethylene terephthalate). The shape of the container body is not particularly limited, but is preferably a shape that is compact, easy to carry, and easy to locate at an inspection location. Specifically, for example, a shape with a flat bottom surface and a low height of the main body (the distance between the top and bottom surfaces) is preferred.

[0061] The first cover is not particularly limited as long as it closes the first opening. For example, it may be a cover that opens and closes the first opening. Specifically, examples include a sliding cover that opens and closes the first opening by sliding, as in the first embodiment; an open cover that opens and closes the first opening by rotating the cover about a hinge, as in the second embodiment; and a thin plate cover that opens and closes the first opening by being attached to the top surface so as to cover the first opening and then peeled off from the top surface, as in the third embodiment. The first cover may or may not have a leak-proof structure that prevents the culture solution from leaking from the interior of the container body through the first opening to the outside. Preferably, it has a leak-proof structure. For example, as in the second embodiment, the open cover may have a rib that fits around the periphery of the first opening in the top portion to prevent leakage of the culture solution. In addition, for example, a cover having a rectangular cover sheet of a size that can cover the first opening, and an adhesive seal provided on the outer periphery of the attachment surface of the cover sheet, such as the thin plate cover of the third embodiment, wherein the adhesive seal is adhered to the surface of the top portion of the cover around the first opening in a manner that prevents leakage of the culture solution, can be used. The sliding cover is not particularly limited, and for example, a sliding cover made of PET or the like can be used. The opening cover is not particularly limited, and for example, an opening cover in which the cover portion, hinge, and grip portion of the cover are made of PET or the like, and the ribs of the cover are made of rubber or the like can be used. The thin plate cover is not particularly limited, and for example, a cover sheet made of PET or the like and the adhesive seal made of an adhesive containing at least one selected from a polysiloxane resin and a fluorine resin can be used.

[0062] The second cover is not particularly limited as long as it closes the second opening. For example, to open the second opening, a cover that can be removed from the second opening is preferred. Preferably, the cover is attachable and detachable to the second opening, as in the first and second embodiments. This is because attaching the cover closes the second opening, and removing the cover opens it. The material of the cover is not particularly limited; examples include PET (polyethylene terephthalate).

[0063] In addition, as the second cover, for example, Figure 8As shown in (a), it can be a sealing cover 17 attached to the surface 4s of the top 4 or the surface 6s of the main body 6 (for example, the surface 6ns of the neck 6n) to close the second opening 12, and the sealing cover 17 can be removed from the second opening 12 by peeling off the surface 4s of the top 4 or the surface 6s of the main body 6. The sealing cover 17 has a base sheet 17s of a size that can cover the second opening 12 and an adhesive 17a provided on the outer periphery of one side of the base sheet 17s, and is a cover of the surrounding part of the second opening 12 in which the adhesive 17a is adhered to the surface 4s of the top 4 or the surface 6s of the main body 6 (for example, the surface 6ns of the neck 6n) in a manner that can prevent leakage of the culture solution. As the sealing cover 17, for example, an aluminum sealing cover in which the base sheet 17s is an aluminum foil can be cited. In addition, as the second cover, for example, Figure 8 As shown in (b), the cover member 6c may be formed integrally with the top portion 4 or the trunk portion 6 (e.g., the neck portion 6n), that is, the cover member 6c may be removed from the second opening 12 by cutting the trunk portion 6 (e.g., the neck portion 6n) along the notch 6t. The material of the cover member 6c is not particularly limited and is generally the same as the material of the container body 2.

[0064] The culture container is preferably further provided with a microorganism capture filter, which is arranged on the bottom surface of the interior of the container body in the area where the microorganisms fall through the first opening. The microorganism capture filter is not particularly limited as long as it is a porous membrane capable of capturing microorganisms, is made of a material that has no adverse effects on microorganisms, and has a structure that has no adverse effects on microorganisms. For example, a membrane filter is preferred, and among them, a membrane filter with a pore size of 0.45 μm or less is preferred. This is because a filter with a pore size of 0.45 μm or less can easily capture microorganisms. As a microorganism capture filter, for example, a circular membrane filter with a diameter of 47 mm is preferred. Specific examples of membrane filters include DURAPORE (PVDF (polyvinylidene fluoride) membrane filter) manufactured by Merck, MF-MILLIPORE (MCE (cellulose mixed ester) membrane filter) manufactured by Merck, hydrophobic PTFE (PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) membrane filter) manufactured by Merck, MITEX (PTFE membrane filter) manufactured by Merck, LCR (PTFE membrane filter) manufactured by Merck, OMNIPORE (PTFE membrane filter) manufactured by Merck, MILLIPORE EXPRESS (PES (polyethersulfone) membrane filter) manufactured by Merck, and ISOPORE (PC (polycarbonate) membrane filter) manufactured by Merck.

[0065] In addition, as a microorganism capture filter, from the perspective of being composed of a material that has no adverse effect on microorganisms and having a structure that has no adverse effect on microorganisms, for example, a microorganism capture filter that does not contain antibacterial substances such as a metal ion coating is preferred. In addition, as a microorganism capture filter, it is preferred that it contains a material that does not hinder the cultivation of microorganisms in a liquid culture medium. From this perspective, for example, a cellulose mixed ester membrane filter is preferred. In addition, as a microorganism capture filter, since it can promote the cultivation of microorganisms, it is preferred that it contains a material that microorganisms do not easily adhere to. From this perspective, for example, a PVDF membrane filter, a PET (polyethylene terephthalate) membrane filter is preferred.

[0066] In the culture container, the microorganism-capturing filter is preferably attached to the area. This allows the microorganisms to reliably fall onto and be captured by the microorganism-capturing filter. In the culture container, the microorganism-capturing filter is attached to the area via an adhesive, preferably comprising at least one selected from silicone resins and fluororesins. Silicone resins and fluororesins are adhesives with high material stability, and therefore, are less likely to elute into the liquid culture medium and adversely affect the culture.

[0067] As a culture container, for example, it is preferred that, as in the culture containers of the modified examples of the first and third embodiments, at least one of the top and the main body is provided with a vent, and a breathable membrane material is provided in a manner covering the vent, wherein the breathable membrane material has the property of not allowing liquid to pass but allowing air to pass. This is because microorganisms can easily fall into the interior of the container body through the first opening, and microorganisms in the environment can be reliably collected. In addition, this is because aerobic bacteria can be collected as microorganisms and the cultivation of aerobic bacteria can be promoted when the microorganisms are cultured in a liquid culture medium. As for the breathable membrane material, there is no particular limitation as long as it has the property of not allowing liquid to pass but allowing air to pass, and for example, a hydrophobic filter is preferred. Here, "hydrophobic filter" refers to a hydrophobic porous membrane with the property of not allowing liquid to pass but allowing air to pass. As for the hydrophobic filter, there is no particular limitation as long as it is such a membrane, and for example, PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) membrane filters, polycarbonate TRACK-ETCHED (PCTE) membrane filters, etc. can be mentioned.

[0068] As a culture container, preferably in a culture container provided with the air vent and a breathable membrane material, a non-breathable lid is further provided, and the non-breathable lid is a non-breathable lid for opening and closing the air vent, and has the property of not allowing air to pass through. This is because when collecting anaerobic bacteria as microorganisms, when cultivating microorganisms in a liquid culture medium, the cultivation of anaerobic bacteria can be prevented by becoming a state of closing the air vent with the non-breathable lid. As the non-breathable lid, as long as the air vent can be opened and closed, it is not particularly limited. For example, as the non-breathable lid of the modified example of the 1st and 3rd embodiment, it is preferably a single-sided adhesive sheet with a substrate sheet and an adhesive layer arranged on the one side of the substrate sheet, etc. As the material of the substrate sheet of the non-breathable lid, it is not particularly limited. For example, the material identical with the material of the container body, etc. can be enumerated.

[0069] 2. Culture Kit

[0070] The culture kit of the embodiment, for example, as in the third embodiment, is a culture kit for use in a drop bacteria test for microorganisms, and includes: a culture container; a microorganism capture filter; and an attachment material for attaching the microorganism capture filter to the bottom surface of the interior of the container body of the culture container, in an area where the microorganisms fall through the first opening. The culture container included in the culture kit is a culture container of the embodiment that does not include a microorganism capture filter.

[0071] While not particularly limited, the adhesive used to attach the microorganism-trapping filter to the area preferably includes an adhesive comprising at least one selected from silicone resins and fluororesins. This is because silicone resins and fluororesins are adhesives with high material stability and are less likely to adversely affect culture. Preferred adhesive materials include double-sided adhesive sheets comprising a base sheet and two adhesive layers disposed on opposite sides of the base sheet, each containing an adhesive.

[0072] 3. Methods for testing for falling microorganisms

[0073] The method for performing a fallen bacteria inspection for microorganisms according to the embodiment is a method for performing a fallen bacteria inspection for microorganisms using a culture container according to the embodiment, the method comprising: a process of placing the culture container at an inspection position with the first opening portion open; a process of collecting microorganisms by allowing microorganisms in the environment above the culture container to drop through the first opening portion to the interior of the container body portion from the time the culture container is placed at the inspection position until a certain period of time has passed; a process of supplying a liquid culture medium to the interior of the container body portion through the first opening portion or the second opening portion after collecting the microorganisms; a process of culturing the microorganisms in the liquid culture medium supplied to the interior of the container body portion to obtain a culture solution; a process of taking out the culture solution from the interior of the container body portion through the second opening portion to the outside of the culture container; and a process of inspecting the microorganisms using the culture solution taken out to the outside.

[0074] The method for performing a drop microbial inspection is not particularly limited as long as it is the method described above. However, a preferred method is a method for performing a drop microbial inspection using a culture container further equipped with a microorganism capture filter, wherein the microorganism capture filter is disposed on the bottom surface of the interior of the container body in the area where the microorganisms drop through the first opening. A preferred method is a method in which the microorganism capture filter is attached to the area, and a particularly preferred method is a method in which the microorganism capture filter is attached to the area with an adhesive, wherein the adhesive comprises at least one selected from a polysiloxane resin and a fluororesin. Furthermore, a preferred method for performing a drop microbial inspection is a method in which a culture container is provided with a vent in at least one of the top portion and the trunk portion, and a breathable membrane material having the property of not allowing liquid to pass but allowing air to pass is provided to cover the vent.

[0075] There are no particular limitations on the microorganisms that are the target of the fallen bacteria inspection, as long as they are generally known as the target of the fallen bacteria inspection. Examples thereof include fungi such as molds, and bacteria.

[0076] During the microorganism collection process, the second opening of the container body of the culture container can be closed, allowing the microorganisms in the environment to drip into the interior of the container body through the first opening. Alternatively, the second opening of the container body of the culture container can be opened, allowing the microorganisms in the environment to drip into the interior of the container body through the first opening. In this case, air flows from the interior of the container body to the outside through the second opening, making it easier for the microorganisms to drip into the interior of the container body through the first opening.

[0077] In the process of obtaining a culture solution by culturing microorganisms in a liquid culture medium supplied to the interior of the container body, the microorganisms can be cultured in the liquid culture medium with both the first opening and the second opening closed, or with at least one of the first opening and the second opening open. In this case, air can be introduced into the liquid culture medium from the outside of the container body through at least one of the first opening and the second opening, thereby promoting the cultivation of aerobic bacteria. It should be noted that in this case, it is necessary to arrange the culture container so that the liquid culture medium does not flow out from the interior of the container body through the opening in the first opening and the second opening to the outside.

[0078] The above describes in detail the embodiments of the culture container and culture kit of the present invention and the method for performing a drop bacteria inspection of microorganisms. The present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and various design changes can be made without departing from the scope of the concept of the present invention described in the claims.

[0079] Explanation of symbols

[0080] 1 Culture container

[0081] 2. Container body

[0082] 4 Top

[0083] 6 Main cadres

[0084] 6p plate-shaped parts

[0085] 6n Neck

[0086] 6h vent

[0087] 6c Cover assembly

[0088] 6t incision

[0089] 8 Bottom

[0090] 10 1st opening

[0091] 12 Second opening

[0092] 16 Lid

[0093] 17 Sealing cover

[0094] 20 Sliding cover

[0095] 30 Microbial capture filter

[0096] 32 Attachment material (double-sided adhesive sheet)

[0097] 40 Open the lid

[0098] 50 sheet cover

[0099] 60 Hydrophobic filter

[0100] 100 Culture Kit

Claims

1. A culture container for use in a drop bacteria test of microorganisms, comprising: The container body can contain the culture medium inside. The container body has a top, a trunk and a bottom. The top portion is provided with a first opening, and the first opening is configured to receive the microorganisms dropped from the environment above the culture container into the interior of the container body. A second opening is provided at the top or the trunk, and the second opening is configured to inject the culture solution. The culture container further comprises: a first cover that closes the first opening; and The second cover closes the second opening.

2. The culture container according to claim 1, wherein The second cover is a cover that can be attached to and detached from the second opening.

3. The culture container according to claim 1, further comprising: The microorganism collection filter is arranged on the bottom surface of the interior of the container body in a region where the microorganisms fall through the first opening. The culture container according to claim 3, wherein The microorganism capture filter is attached to the area by an adhesive, The adhesive includes at least one selected from silicone resins and fluorine resins. The culture container according to claim 1 , wherein: A vent is provided in at least one of the top portion and the trunk portion, and a breathable membrane material having a property of not allowing liquid to pass but allowing air to pass is provided to cover the vent.

6. The culture container according to claim 5, further comprising: The non-air-permeable cover opens and closes the vent and has a property of not allowing air to pass through.

7. A culture kit for use in a drop bacteria test of microorganisms, comprising: The culture container according to any one of claims 1, 2, 5 and 6; Microorganism capture filters; and An attaching material is used to attach the microorganism-collecting filter to a region on the bottom surface of the interior of the container body of the culture container where the microorganisms fall through the first opening.

8. The culture kit according to claim 7, wherein The patch material includes an adhesive containing at least one selected from silicone resins and fluorine resins.

9. A method for performing a drop bacteria inspection of microorganisms using the culture container according to any one of claims 1 to 6, comprising: a placement step of placing the culture container at an inspection position with the first opening opened; a collecting step of collecting the microorganisms by allowing the microorganisms in the environment above the culture container to descend into the interior of the container body through the first opening after a certain time has passed since the culture container was placed at the inspection position; a supplying step of supplying a liquid culture medium into the interior of the container body through the first opening or the second opening after collecting the microorganisms; a step of obtaining a culture solution by culturing the microorganism in the liquid culture medium supplied to the interior of the container body to obtain the culture solution; a taking-out step of taking the culture solution out from the interior of the container body through the second opening to the exterior of the culture container; and An inspection step of inspecting the microorganisms using the culture solution removed to the outside.

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