AMSBIO unveils high-sensitivity mycoplasma detection kit for cell culture
AMSBIO has introduced the MycoScope™ Mycoplasma PCR detection kit, a new tool designed to address the persistent challenge of mycoplasma contamination in cell culture laboratories. This kit employs polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technology to detect mycoplasma infections in under three hours, offering a significant improvement over traditional detection methods.
The release of this kit comes at a crucial time, as recent data from the International Society for Stem Cell Research (ISSCR) standards report (2023) indicates that up to 80% of cell cultures may be infected with mycoplasma. While these contaminants may not immediately cause cell death, they can significantly alter cellular structure and function, potentially invalidating research outcomes.
Technical specifications and advantages
The MycoScope kit boasts impressive sensitivity, capable of detecting fewer than five mycoplasma genomes per microlitre of sample. Its primer set targets the 16S rRNA coding region of the mycoplasma genome, enabling broad-spectrum detection of common cell culture mycoplasma species.
Key features of the kit include:
1. Compatibility with a wide range of commercially available DNA polymerases
2. Option for direct testing of cell supernatants without prior DNA extraction
3. Distinct 500bp band visualisation on agarose gel for easy interpretation
4. Multiplex capability for efficient batch testing
5. Available in 50 and 100 reaction sizes
While agar cultures and DNA fluorochrome staining have been the traditional mainstays of mycoplasma detection, PCR-based methods are gaining favour due to their superior sensitivity. The MycoScope kit aims to capitalise on this trend, offering a streamlined workflow that could potentially save laboratories significant time and resources.
Dr Alex Sim, CEO of AMSBIO, commented on the kit’s potential impact: “The MycoScope Mycoplasma PCR detection kit represents a significant step forward in our ongoing efforts to support the scientific community with cutting-edge tools for cell culture quality control. We believe this kit will help researchers maintain the integrity of their cell lines and the validity of their experimental results.” As mycoplasma contamination continues to pose a significant challenge in cell culture-based research, tools like the MycoScope kit will play an important role in maintaining experimental rigour and reproducibility across various fields of biomedical science.
For more information about the MycoScope Mycoplasma PCR detection kit, visit: https://www.amsbio.com/cell-culture-kits/mycoscope/
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