Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 16, 2026

Optimized PCR-based Detection of Mycoplasma
Published on: June 20, 2011
Eradication of mycoplasma contaminations
Cord C Uphoff1, Hans G Drexler
1Department of Human and Animal Cell Lines, DSMZ, German Collection of Microorganisms and Cell Cultures, Braunschweig, Germany. cup@dsmz.de
Abstract:
Mycoplasma contaminations have a multitude of effects on the cultured cell lines that may influence the results of experiments or pollute bioactive substances used in human medicine. The elimination of mycoplasma contaminations of cell cultures has become a practical alternative to discarding and reestablishing important or irreplaceable cell lines. Different quinolones, tetracyclines, and pleuromutilins shown to have strong antimycoplasma properties are employed for the decontamination. We provide detailed protocols to assure eradication of mycoplasma, to prevent formation of resistant mycoplasma strains, and to cure heavily contaminated and damaged cells. To date, we have not detected any consistent and permanent alterations to eukaryotic cells either during or after the treatment.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Clinical Significance of Antibiotic Resistance
Physical Methods for Controlling Microbial Growth: Radiation and Filtration
Cleaning, Sterilization, and Disinfection
Cleaning
The cleaning process usually involves using water with detergents or enzymatic cleaner and removing foreign material from objects and surfaces, including organic material such as body fluids or inorganic material like soil. Cleaning is performed before high-level disinfection and sterilization because foreign materials on the cover of the devices interfere with process...
Key Techniques in Microbiology
Need for Obtaining Pure Cultures

