Several studies mention using agar amended with mercuric chloride when isolating mercury resistant bacteria. Is there a lab method available for preparation of these plates? If no, what are some details to consider when working with mercuric chloride agar?
dear Sophia,
Before plating the autoclave agar-media, either to the plates or to the prepared media add the desired concentration of HgCl2 from the prepared stock solution and mix it thoroughly. Allow the plates to solidify followed by addition of sample - spread plate technique or any other technique.
All the best
I would be careful with mercury of any type, and strongly advise against autoclaving it - even as as HgCl2
Here is what PubChem has to say about it:
"Mercury chloride (HgCl2). A highly toxic compound that volatizes slightly at ordinary temperature and appreciably at 100 degrees C. It is corrosive to mucous membranes and used as a topical antiseptic and disinfectant."
https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/Mercuric-chloride
Make your plates as usual and smear HgCl2 solution on it. If you worry about contamination filter sterilize the solution.
Thank you Bhavya G. and Yoram Gerchman for your informative answers.
If you are unable to autoclave HgCl2, are there other methods for sterilizing and disposing of the agar plates after use?
Also, is it safe to smear the HgCl2 solution in a biosafety cabinet or would you require a special fume hood?
as Yoram Gerchman already mentioned you can opt for filter sterilize the mercuric chloride solution.
regrading disposing of plates its better to follow the guidelines of your lab. As it also contains microbes once your utilized for the growth.
Yes, its safe to do in bio-safety cabinet.
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