American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) Technologist in Cytogenetics certification (ASCP CG) Practice Test

What can be inferred from poor growth in cell cultures?

1. Contamination issues could be present

2. Cells may be senescent

3. Improper culturing techniques are used

4. There are inherent genetic abnormalities

The correct answer is: Contamination issues could be present

The inference of poor growth in cell cultures can indeed indicate contamination issues. Contaminants such as bacteria, fungi, or mycoplasma can thrive in cell cultures, competing for resources and producing substances that inhibit the growth of the intended cells. Contamination typically manifests as a sudden alteration in the growth pattern, such as decreased cell proliferation or unexpected changes in the morphology of the cells. Observing unexpected turbidity in the culture medium or changes to the appearance of the cells can signal an underlying contamination problem. While senescence, improper techniques, and genetic abnormalities can also lead to poor growth, these factors don’t explain the issue as universally as contamination does. Senescent cells behave predictably, while improper technique could lead to various outcomes that aren’t as definitive as contamination. Genetic abnormalities could cause slow growth or even cell death, but the presence of external contaminants presents a more immediate, identifiable cause of poor culture performance.