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[Electron microscopic studies of cell cultures of various origins]
Voprosy Virusologii
|July 1, 1976
Abstract:
Thirty-four cell cultures of various origins were examined in the electron microscope. Mycoplasma were found in 31 cultures, A, C and D particles of oncornaviruses in 27 cultures, adenovirus in one culture and paramyxovirus in 8 cultures. Two cultures were found to be virus- and mycoplasma-free. A stringent control of cell cultures for the presence of viruses, mycoplasma or other microbiological agents is recommended.
Insights
Electron microscopy revealed widespread contamination in cell cultures. Most cultures harbored Mycoplasma or oncornaviruses, highlighting the need for rigorous microbiological agent control in cell culture research.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Cell Biology
- Electron Microscopy
Context:
- Cell cultures are fundamental tools in biological and medical research.
- Contamination by adventitious agents can compromise experimental results.
- Electron microscopy offers high-resolution visualization of cellular and microbial structures.
Purpose:
- To assess the prevalence of microbial contamination in a diverse set of cell cultures.
- To identify specific types of contaminants, including viruses and Mycoplasma.
- To evaluate the effectiveness of standard cell culture practices in preventing contamination.
Summary:
- Electron microscopy was used to examine 34 cell cultures from various sources.
- Mycoplasma were detected in 31 cultures, oncornavirus particles (A, C, D) in 27, adenovirus in 1, and paramyxovirus in 8.
- Only two cultures were free of both viruses and Mycoplasma.
Impact:
- Demonstrates a high rate of contamination in commonly used cell cultures.
- Underscores the critical need for stringent quality control and routine screening for microbiological agents.
- Emphasizes the potential impact of undetected contaminants on research reproducibility and validity.