Is cell culture a risky business? Risk analysis based on scientist survey data

• Published in: International journal of cancer 2016-02, Vol.138 (3), p.664-670
• Main Authors: Shannon, Mark, Capes‐Davis, Amanda, Eggington, Elaine, Georghiou, Ronnie, Huschtscha, Lily I., Moy, Elsa, Power, Melinda, Reddel, Roger R., Arthur, Jonathan W.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: authentication; Biometric Identification; Cancer; Cell culture; Cell Culture Techniques - standards; cell lines; contamination; Humans; Laboratories; Laboratory Personnel; Medical research; Microorganisms; Mycoplasma; Mycoplasma - isolation & purification; Risk Assessment; Surveys and Questionnaires; Tissue Banks
• ISSN: 0020-7136; 1097-0215
• DOI: 10.1002/ijc.29817

Cell culture is a technique that requires vigilance from the researcher. Common cell culture problems, including contamination with microorganisms or cells from other cultures, can place the reliability and reproducibility of cell culture work at risk. Here we use survey data, contributed by research scientists based in Australia and New Zealand, to assess common cell culture risks and how these risks are managed in practice. Respondents show that sharing of cell lines between laboratories continues to be widespread. Arrangements for mycoplasma and authentication testing are increasingly in place, although scientists are often uncertain how to perform authentication testing. Additional risks are identified for preparation of frozen stocks, storage and shipping. What's new? Common cell culture problems, including contamination with microorganisms or cells from other cultures, can place the reliability and reproducibility of cell culture work at risk. Here, the authors use survey responses from 250 scientists in Australia and New Zealand to identify common cell culture risks and assess how these risks are managed in practice. Responses show that sharing of cell lines between laboratories continues to be widespread. Arrangements for mycoplasma contamination and cell line authentication testing are increasingly in place, although scientists are often uncertain how to perform authentication testing. Additional risks are identified for preparation of frozen stocks, storage and shipping.