Mycoplasma detection

One of the most common contaminants in cell culture laboratories is mycoplasma. Cells are usually infected by cross-contamination from untested infected cells (eg, through aerosols generated during pipetting, using the same medium bottles, working with more than one cell type at a time), contaminated material, contaminated donor tissue (<1%), or direct infection from the researcher.

Mycoplasma grows slowly and does not necessarily kill the cells, but affects different cellular parameters, such as altering the cell membrane's antigenicity, causing chromosomal level changes, inhibiting cell metabolism and fragmenting DNA.

To ensure accurate and reliable results from cell culture experiments, it is important to regularly test cell cultures for mycoplasma contamination. It can be challenging to detect mycoplasmas contamination because it does not cause a change in pH or turbidity of the cell culture medium, which are common indicators of other contaminants.

To support researchers in maintaining contamination-free cultures, we offer a comprehensive range of mycoplasma detection and elimination solutions. Our portfolio includes the MycoAlert™ Detection Kit from Lonza - an easy-to-use luminescence assay- along with the Lucetta™ Luminometer, specifically designed for MycoAlert™ assays. We also provide sensitive PCR-based detection kits from Euroclone, as well as effective mycoplasma elimination products. With these tools, you can ensure the integrity and reliability of your cell culture experiments.