Overview of Mycoplasma Removal Medium

Mycoplasma Removal Medium (MRM) is a specialized cell culture medium designed to effectively eliminate mycoplasma contamination from cell cultures. Mycoplasma are a group of bacteria lacking a cell wall, which makes them resistant to many common antibiotics. They can contaminate cell cultures, affecting cell growth, metabolism, and experimental results.

Key Components and Functionality

• Antimycoplasma Agents:
  • Quinolones: These are a class of antibiotics that inhibit DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV, enzymes essential for bacterial DNA replication.
  • Tetracyclines: These antibiotics inhibit protein synthesis by binding to the 30S ribosomal subunit.
  • Macrolides: These inhibit protein synthesis by binding to the 50S ribosomal subunit.
• Antibiotics:
  • Broad-Spectrum Antibiotics: To prevent secondary bacterial infections during the mycoplasma removal process, the medium may contain antibiotics such as penicillin and streptomycin.
• Cell Growth Promoters:
  • Nutrients: Vitamins, amino acids, and glucose to support the growth and recovery of healthy cells during the treatment process.
  • Serum: Often fetal bovine serum (FBS) is included to provide essential growth factors and proteins.
• Buffer System:
  • pH Buffering: Sodium bicarbonate or HEPES buffer to maintain a stable pH in the medium, ensuring an optimal environment for cell recovery.

Usage Instructions

• Preparation:
  • Thaw and prepare the medium according to the manufacturer's instructions.
  • Ensure the medium is sterile and pre-warmed to the appropriate temperature (typically 37°C).
• Treatment:
  • Replace the contaminated cell culture medium with Mycoplasma Removal Medium.
  • Incubate the cells in the MRM for a specified duration, usually ranging from a few days to a week, depending on the level of contamination.
• Monitoring:
  • Regularly check cell viability and morphology during the treatment period.
  • Perform mycoplasma detection assays post-treatment to confirm the elimination of mycoplasma.
• Post-Treatment:
  • Gradually transition cells back to their regular growth medium after successful mycoplasma removal.
  • Continue monitoring for any signs of residual contamination.