Cell Line Validation

Between 18% and 36% of cell lines are either misidentified or cross-contaminated (ICLAC misidentified cell line list and CCLC misidentified cell line list). A recent notice from NIH requires cell line validation for grant applications to be considered of the highest quality. Journals such as Science, Nature and PNAS also require cell line validation for publication. Cell lines that have been extensively characterized at the DNA, RNA and protein levels will allow investigators to choose the correct cell line for their research. Pre-characterized cell lines will decrease the cost to researchers since this will eliminate repeat analysis. Thus, cell line validation is a critical issue for both scientific publications and grant applications.

MD Anderson's Cell Line Authentication Policy

MD Anderson's policy (ACA#1044) now requires all researchers to validate their cell lines at least once per year (Our core highly suggests to validate cell lines every six months).

We are here to help all MD Anderson researchers who rely on cell lines for their research.

Education Resources