We chose to use qPCR for microbial screening of cannabis at Digipath Labs for two reasons. First, Medicinal Genomics had already done the hard part, ie. creating the reagent kits for each microbial category and completing the validation on cannabis matrix to arrive at the more recognizable CFU/g conversion. That helps state regulators begin to understand the relationship of genomic screening to conventional plating methods such as 3M’s petrifilms. Second, there are many limitations with conventional plating methods (e.g. 3M’s petrifilms and BioMuirieux’s tube-based system). Medicinal Genomics' qPCR-based microbial detection platform allows for 48-hour turnaround of testing results and has built-in flexibility for the ever-changing state-by-state microbial testing guidelines. More importantly, qPCR provides an archived digital record of raw test results for those operating under ISO 17025 accreditation.

We chose PathoSEEK because it is more specific and faster than plate counting methods. All interactions with the Medicinal Genomics team have been positive and helpful. I would recommend the PathoSEEK platform to labs looking for a microbial testing platform because it’s designed for and validated on cannabis products.

We have used the PathoSEEK qPCR platform for our cannabis testing since opening. The system is relatively easy to use for anyone with basic molecular biology training. No specialized mycology training is required. Further, since specific genetic signatures are used rather than colony morphology, the system is less open to interpretation. Also, results are obtained quickly, helping with valuable turnaround time.

We have chosen to use the PathoSEEK qPCR platform for microbial testing because of its accuracy and reliability.  The Medicinal Genomics team is also friendly, helpful, and responsive to the needs of our lab to ensure our success. Classical plating methods are subject to misinterpretation and technical limitations. However, PathoSEEK utilizes targeted primers that enable us to get an accurate result and a faster turnaround time in comparison to plating methods like 3M Petrifilms or agar plates. It’s also validated for different cannabis matrices which allows us to test a wide array of cannabis products. We would strongly recommend PathoSEEK for any cannabis laboratory seeking to do faster and more accurate microbial testing on cannabis products.

It does not get any easier than the Medicinal Genomics PathoSEEK assay for microbial testing on cannabis! The technology is based on validation performed on the complex cannabis matrix and utilizes the plant’s SCCG as an internal control. I have utilized PathoSEEK for several years now and Medicinal Genomics has continued to impress with their support, updates, and adaptability to different state’s cannabis regulation as it pertains to microbial contaminants. The added ability to scale up using robotics in my lab also leads to increase throughput setting us apart from others.

The PathoSEEK platform has become our method of choice because of its accuracy and reliability. It utilizes PCR technology with targeted primers which allows for specific pathogenic microbes to be tested without the fear of false positives, allowing us more confident data and saving our customers the headache of arbitrarily destroying false-positive product.  The method is robust and since its validated for the wide array of cannabis matrices means we can accept a wider variety of samples with less time spent on expensive R&D. The Medicinal Genomics team has been incredibly friendly and responsive. Their applications support is top notch. Medicinal Genomics truly goes above and beyond to ensure our lab has everything we need for success.