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Is cell culture a risky business? Risk analysis based on scientist survey data
Author(s) -
Shan Mark,
CapesDavis Amanda,
Eggington Elaine,
Georghiou Ronnie,
Huschtscha Lily I.,
Moy Elsa,
Power Melinda,
Reddel Roger R.,
Arthur Jonathan W.
Publication year - 2015
Publication title -
international journal of cancer
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 2.475
H-Index - 234
eISSN - 1097-0215
pISSN - 0020-7136
DOI - 10.1002/ijc.29817
Subject(s) - business , safety culture , organizational culture , internet privacy , risk analysis (engineering) , public relations , computer science , political science , management , economics
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.