Detect Interspecies Contamination of Cell Lines with CLEAR PCR Panel
Jan 22 2013
Check the identity of your cell lines with Cell Line Examination and Report (CLEAR) PCR Panel, which can detect interspecies contamination of less than 0.5% using TaqMan® PCR assays. Cells that can be differentiated include those originating from mouse, rat, Chinese hamster, Golden Syrian hamster, human and nonhuman primate (NHP) species.
Cell lines requiring direct or indirect contact with feeder cells, conditioned medium or passage in animals can potentially get contaminated with heterologous cells from a different species. Cell lines can also get contaminated during routine culture. Sharing medium, serum and other reagents among different cell lines increases the risk of cross-contamination.
The past few years have brought increased awareness of the magnitude and consequences of cell line contamination. Good cell culture techniques, record keeping and routine monitoring of cell lines can save valuable time and resources. Cell lines should be routinely verified for absence of adventitious agents and heterologous cells. Monitoring is particularly advisable during early passage, expansion and when preparing seed stocks.
CLEAR PCR Panel is offered as a stand-alone test, or CLEAR can be added to any rodent or human infectious agent PCR panel or Mycoplasma testing to also ensure that your cell lines are free from infectious agents that can adversely affect your in vivo research. To request complimentary sample shipping materials, review sample specifications and download the infectious disease PCR submission form, visit the diagnostic sample submission webpage.
CLEAR PCR Panel testing is performed non-GLP and is for research purposes only. For cell line characterization services compliant with current Good Manufacturing Practice (cGMP) and Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) using validated test procedures, contact Charles River for details at askcharlesriver@crl.com.
Related Information