The AbraTox Kit is used for the determination of toxicity of water soluble samples. The inhibitory effect of the sample on the light emission of luminescent bacteria, Vibrio fischeri, is measured with a luminometer. The AbraTox Kit provides a rapid, easy to use method for measuring toxicity of aqueous samples such as industrial effluents, septic discharge; extracts from sediments and soil; surface, ground and drinking water, etc.

The inhibition of the luminescence is determined by combining different dilutions of the test sample with luminescent bacteria. The decrease of light intensity is measured after a contact time of 5 - 30 minutes. The inhibitory effect of dilutions is compared to a toxin free control to give the percentage inhibition (INH%). The value is plotted against the dilution factor and the resultant curve is used to calculate the EC50 (Effective Concentration giving 50% inhibition of light output) of the sample or the extent of luminescence inhition as compared to the negative control when using the rapid toxicity screen procedure.