Contamination Control Compass
Edition #04/2026

 

Informative Articles
How to prevent false-positives in PCR? – A practical hygiene concept for reliable results

Photo of a person wearing a full-body protective suit to prevent cross-contamination

PCR is one of the most sensitive methods for detecting microbial contamination. However, this sensitivity also makes it highly susceptible to two distinct risks:  true contamination of samples with target material  and  cross-contamination with amplified DNA (amplicons)  from previous PCR reactions. Even trace amounts of either can lead to false-positive results.


So how can you ensure your data stays reliable?


In this article, you will learn how to prevent both target contamination and amplicon carryover in PCR workflows – through optimized lab design, strict process control, and effective decontamination strategies – ensuring accurate and reproducible results every time.

Read more
 

Product Highlights
Meet the world’s most sensitive mycoplasma PCR assay

Photo of Venor® Mycoplasma qPCR packaging in front of a qPCR Cycler

With the Venor® Mycoplasma qPCR Kit, you can take your contamination control to the next level. This assay enables the detection of both DNA and RNA through reverse transcriptase – making it the most sensitive solution for mycoplasma detection. It is fully compliant not only with the latest EP 2.6.7 update, which came into force on April 1, 2026, but also with the upcoming revision of USP <77>, which will be official on October 1.

Discover Venor® Mycoplasma qPCR
Request sample

Are you wondering what's changed with the updated EP 2.6.7? Discover the key changes in mycoplasma testing and how to meet the new requirements here.

 

Still open questions around EP 2.6.7?

If you are currently reviewing your mycoplasma testing, ISCT 2026 is a good opportunity to get clarity. Meet our colleague Stuart Kussatz from May 6–9 in Dublin to discuss your setup, validation approach and remaining questions.

Stop by and talk it through.

 

More opportunities to connect with our experts

If you missed the chance to connect with our team at ISCT, there are more opportunities coming up:

At ASGCT 2026 in Boston, the focus is on the challenges of ATMP development and manufacturing. If you are dealing with contamination control, mycoplasma testing or validation in this context, it is a great opportunity to exchange practical insights and discuss reliable testing strategies.

Shortly after, LAB-SUPPLY in Hanover, Germany, on May 20 offers a more hands-on perspective on analytics, QC and laboratory workflows. If you are currently refining your processes or facing contamination challenges, you can get direct, practical input for your day-to-day lab work.

Stop by and talk to us at both events.

 
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QUICK TIP

Warm up wisely:
Only heat media and solutions in a covered water bath using clean containers. Open warming often leads to contamination, especially mold growth around lids.

 

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Dates 2026: Where can you meet us in person?

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Here's to clean cultures and reliable results!


Warm regards,

Your MB Team

 

Do you need technical support or have questions regarding our products? Please contact support@minerva-biolabs.com. Any feedback or suggestions? Write an email to newsletter@minerva-biolabs.com.

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