Webinars

Time: 12:00 PM Eastern Standard Time

Abstract:

The recent development of the CRISPR/Cas9 system provides a revolutionary gene-editing technology for basic research in biology and for development of targeted cancer therapies. In addition to enabling the identification of novel drug targets through functional screening, CRISPR/Cas9 facilitates the creation of disease models for drug discovery and development.

In this webinar, ATCC experts will address how ATCC utilized this advanced technology to create novel human cell models that contain disease-relevant point mutations and gene rearrangements. In addition, we will introduce a new type of BRAF inhibitor-resistant cell line that was created by using CRISPR/Cas9 to insert the NRAS Q61K mutation. These human isogenic lines provide useful disease models for the identification and validation of new therapeutics.

Key Points:

• CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing technology is a powerful tool for drug discovery
• Gene editing technology can be used to create disease-relevant cell models for screening new anti-cancer drug targets
• CRISPR/Cas9 is a useful tool for creating new types of drug-resistant cell models

Time: 12:00 PM Eastern Standard Time

Abstract:

Over the past few decades, much has been written about misidentification of cell lines, primarily human cell lines. It is not unusual that studies of the ‘same’ cell lines performed by different laboratories often show different results using the same methodology. Thus far, numerous cell lines are known to be misidentified due, in part, to lack of adequate testing. The financial loss incurred by using misidentified cell lines is estimated in the millions of dollars. Cell line authentication is crucial. The validity of scientific data demands that consistent and unequivocal verification of cell line identity is precise. The implementation of best tissue culture practices to include routine authentication of human cell lines by short tandem repeat (STR) profiling is highly recommended by funding agencies, journal editors, and scientific societies. This presentation will focus on the use of STR Profiling for human cell line authentication.

Key Points:

• Misidentification of cell lines may result in invalidated research results, withdrawal of funding, publication retraction, and loss of reputation
• Authentication of cell lines is critical to trusting your data
• STR profiling is an inexpensive, reliable method to authenticate human cell lines

Time: 12:00 PM Eastern Standard Time

Abstract:

Employing good aseptic technique and understanding the specific culture requirements of a strain are essential for optimal viral growth. In this webinar, we will discuss the basic principles for propagating animal viruses in the laboratory. Here, we will highlight best practices for making good virus stocks with an emphasis on the art and science of virus culture that should be followed to help avoid contamination and cross-contamination. Further, we will provide an in-depth look at viral culturing practices in both cell culture and embryonated chicken eggs using Influenza virus as an example.

Key Points:

• Good aseptic technique alone is not sufficient to grow and maintain virus stocks
• Host cell culture authentication is important for growing a good stock of virus
• The nature of biomaterials used in culturing viruses in cells and the tendency for viruses to mutate are the primary challenges in obtaining consistent end results