Recent headlines have highlighted the risks of not validating reagents prior to experimentation, with many stories about wasted years of work, false hopes of reproducing promising results, and the destabilization of partnerships arranged with commercial entities. While vendors are responsible for reagent quality, researchers also share responsibility, as personal incentives for reproducible research are high. Taking several small steps can reduce the risk researchers unknowingly take when running an experiment. Some of these steps are simply asking smart questions before purchasing products or recording product information as reagent boxes are opened. Other steps fit into toolboxes of validation strategies to ensure critical reagents match experimental requirements for identity, function and structure.
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