Cell line authentication: a necessity for reproducible biomedical research

Abstract: Immortalized or continuous cell lines are invaluable tools in basic and preclinical research. However, the widespread use of misidentified cell lines is a serious threat to scientific reproducibility. Based on the experiences of mandatory cell line authentication at the International Journal of Cancer (IJC), we provide an overview of the issues pertinent to misidentified cell lines and discuss available solutions. We also summarize the lessons learned, revealing that at least 5% of the human cell lines used in manuscripts considered for peer review are misidentified. About 4% of the considered manuscripts are rejected for severe cell line problems, and most are subsequently published in other journals. In order to diminish such malpractice and its consequences for the scientific record, we postulate that strict multi‐layered quality control is essential. Besides journals and publishers, we encourage scientists, research institutions, and funders to take action on the matter and revise their respective policies. Hence, we provide concrete recommendations on introducing regular authentication schemes and staff training, and discuss future steps for enhancing good cell culture practices.

Standort
Deutsche Nationalbibliothek Frankfurt am Main
Umfang
Online-Ressource
Sprache
Englisch

Erschienen in
Cell line authentication: a necessity for reproducible biomedical research ; day:27 ; month:06 ; year:2022 ; extent:9
The EMBO journal / European Molecular Biology Organization ; (27.06.2022) (gesamt 9)

Urheber
Souren, Nicole Y.
Fusenig, Norbert
Heck, Stefanie
Dirks, Wilhelm G.
Capes‐Davis, Amanda
Bianchini, Franca
Plass, Christoph

DOI
10.15252/embj.2022111307
URN
urn:nbn:de:101:1-2022062715162764595506
Rechteinformation
Open Access; Der Zugriff auf das Objekt ist unbeschränkt möglich.
Letzte Aktualisierung
15.08.2025, 07:32 MESZ

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