ABOUT MYCOPLASMA CONTAMINATION

Mycoplasma are prokaryotic microorganisms that are between 0.3-0.8 um in diameter and lack a true cell wall. Conventional methods to avoid contamination such as the use of filters and traditional antibiotics, are not entirely effective in keeping mycoplasma out of cell cultures¹. Mycoplasma contamination can affect cell cultures through altered protein, RNA, DNA, synthesis, altered cellular metabolism, induced chromosomal aberrations, affected cell membrane composition, interference in biological assays and changes in cell morphology and viability². Regular testing is recommended to assure that cell lines are free from contamination.  Learn more about Mycoplasma Detection by PCR offered by WiCell.

1. Drexler, H. G., & Uphoff, C. C. (2002). Mycoplasma contamination of cell cultures: Incidence, sources, effects, detection, elimination, prevention. Cytotechnology, 39(2), 75-90.  
2. Nikfarjam, L., & Farzaneh, P. (2012). Prevention and Detection of Mycoplasma Contamination in Cell Culture. Cell Journal (Yakhteh), 13(4), 203-212.