Mycoplsama species Detection using the MycoAlert System:(this information is adapted from Lonza's Website)
We are pleased to announce our latest offering, Mycoplasma species detection in cell culture using Lonza's MycoAlert System.
The assay is a bioluminescent assays based on unique metabolic processes that Mycoplasma species use to derive energy from their host cells. The MycoAlert Kit specifically detects enzymes involved in Mycoplasma metabolism that are absent in their host cells. By using substrates for the Mycoplasma-specific enzymes, it is possible to drive the formation of ATP from ADP.
The resultant ATP is then conveniently detected using the bioluminescent reaction
catalyzed by the Firefly Luciferase enzyme. Any increase in light output from
this reaction will indicate the presence of Mycoplasma.
The MycoAlert Kit has been extensively tested against all Mycoplasma and Acholeplasma
species commonly contaminating cells grown in culture. Additionally, the assay has been
compared to established methodologies such as Mycoplasma culture, Hoechst staining and
PCR. It was demonstrated that the MycoAlert Kit exhibits equivalent or superior sensitivity
to these methods and provides more consistent, reliable results.
By combining speed, ease of use and sensitivity, the MycoAlert Kit provides the first effective
tool to enable cell biologists to tackle one of their most troublesome problems.
