Fast and Reliable Mycoplasma Detection with a Simple Luminescence Readout

August 10, 2026

BlueskyReddit
SUNY UB
Research Scientist

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Company:

Lonza

Product Name:

MycoAlert® Mycoplasma Detection Kit

Catalog Number:

LT07-118

We used the MycoAlert Mycoplasma Detection Kit for routine screening of mammalian cell cultures for mycoplasma contamination before downstream experiments. The assay was quick, straightforward, and provided an easy-to-interpret quantitative result using a luminescence plate reader.

Experimental Design and Results Summary

Application

Mycoplasma detection in mammalian cell culture

Starting Material

Cleared cell culture supernatant

Tips

Use a white-walled microplate for luminescence measurements. We used Greiner Bio-One 96-well white plates, catalog 655075, and obtained reliable readings. Plate choice is important for obtaining a strong luminescence signal. Also allow the kit reagents to reach room temperature before use and follow the specified incubation times carefully.

Results Summary

The assay produced clear luminescence readings and an unambiguous negative result. In a representative experiment, Reading A was 348 RLU and Reading B was 205 RLU, resulting in a B/A ratio of approximately 0.59. This was well below the 0.9 cutoff for a mycoplasma-negative culture. The assay required only a small amount of cleared culture supernatant and was convenient for routine screening.

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Summary

The Good

Fast workflow, simple quantitative readout, small sample requirement, and very easy interpretation of results.

The Bad

Requires access to a luminometer or multimode plate reader capable of luminescence detection.

The Bottom Line

A convenient and reliable kit for routine mycoplasma screening. I strongly recommend using a white-walled plate, such as Greiner Bio-One 655075, for consistent luminescence measurements.

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