Background 

Contaminations of cell culture pose a major threat to scientific results. In addition to molds, yeast and bacteria contaminations that are easily detectable by pH shifts, turbidity, and cell destruction, other contaminations such as viruses (e.g. SMRV), Mycoplasma and other cell lines (e.g. HeLa) are more difficult to detect, and as a result, are a potentially more serious problem.

The extent of damage created in a laboratory or research project is probably directly proportional to the length of time that a culture contaminant escapes detection.
During this time the quality and validity of all research done with those cultures is compromised, as is, when finally the contamination is detected, the reputation of the researchers using them.

In general, contaminations can be acquired via two ways: i. improper working techniques including accidents or mistakes or ii. contamination of the source material.

Multiplexion - Advanced Detection