Cell Line Testing

CellBank Australia aims to offer cell line testing as user-pays services, for those research scientists who need to outsource these activities.

Mycoplasma Detection Testing

Contamination of cell lines with Mycoplasma is a common issue in cell culture. While published figures vary, it is estimated that 15 to 35% of established cell lines are contaminated with Mycoplasma. While good cell culture practice reduces the incidence of Mycoplasma contamination, it still occurs, and can spread easily. Furthermore, Mycoplasma infection can alter various properties of the cells, including changes in gene activity. For these reasons, it is important that research laboratories undertaking cell culture regularly test their cell lines for Mycoplasma infection.

Mycoplasma Testing – $160 per sample (ex GST)

Cell Line Authentication Testing

Cross-contamination of cell lines, where one cell line becomes contaminated with a second cell line, is a common issue in cell culture. First publicised in connection with the HeLa cell line in the 1960s, cross-contamination has been estimated in various studies to affect between 13 and 36% of existing cell lines. While the use of authenticated cell lines obtained from a repository and Good Cell Culture Practice minimise the risk of cross-contamination, it still occurs. It is therefore important that research laboratories regularly test their cell lines for cross-contamination.

Human Cell Line Authentication Testing – $205 per sample (ex GST)

Non-human Cell Line Species Identification Testing – $185 per sample (ex GST)