Department of Biomedicine

Laboratory Animal Core Facility at Biomedicine

 Department of Biomedicine Research Core Facilities The Laboratory Animal Core Facility at Biomedicine Before you start Mandatory Pathogen Testing of Human and Murine Cells

Mandatory Pathogen Testing of Human and Murine Cells

To mitigate biosafety risks and uphold animal welfare standards, all human and murine cells used in vivo must be tested. This includes comprehensive screening for viral and bacterial pathogens, in accordance with Danish legislation (Danish Tissue and Cells Act) and FELASA recommendations: “Human cell lines intended for use in animals should be screened for both rodent and human pathogens.”

  

Human Cell Line Testing

Rationale: Human cell lines may carry zoonotic or bloodborne pathogens, posing risks during handling and in vivo use. Sharps injuries and aerosol exposure are key concerns.

Testing Requirements:

  • Standard Panel: IDEXX h-IMPACT Profile I
  • Alternatives: Equivalent panels from accredited providers covering the same minimum agents.

Minimum Agents Tested (based on Danish Tissue and Cells Act and FELASA):

  • Viruses: HIV-1/2, HTLV-1/2, HBV, HCV, CMV, EBV, HSV, LCMV, Human adenovirus, Parvovirus B19 (protocol-dependent)
  • Bacteria: Corynebacterium spp., Mycoplasma spp., Treponema pallidum (syphilis)

Murine Cell Line Testing

Rationale: Murine cells can introduce infectious agents into SPF animal colonies, compromising both animal health and experimental integrity.

Testing Requirements:

  • Standard Panel: IDEXX IMPACT FELASA Profile
  • Alternatives: Equivalent comprehensive panels from certified providers.

Minimum Agents Tested (based on FELASA guidelines):

  • Viruses: Mouse hepatitis virus (MHV), Mouse parvovirus (MPV 1–5), Minute virus of mice (MVM), Mouse rotavirus (EDIM), Theiler’s murine encephalomyelitis virus (TMEV), Sendai virus, Pneumonia virus of mice (PVM), Murine norovirus, Reovirus type 3 (REO3), Ectromelia virus (ECTRO), Lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV), Mouse adenovirus 1 & 2 (MAV1 & MAV2),
  • Bacteria: Mycoplasma pulmonis, Mycoplasma spp., Corynebacterium bovis, Corynebacterium spp. (HAC2)

Documentation & Submission

  • Submit test certificates via email: vet.biomed@biomed.au.dk
  • Alternatively, include documentation in your study plan.
  • Refer to previously registered results if applicable.
  • Always specify your research group and the exact cell line used.

Compliance Checklist

  • Ensure testing is performed within the last 3–5 years.
  • Submit documentation before initiating experiments.
  • Retain certificates and bring documentation when working in the facility.
  • Report positive test results immediately.
  • For assistance, contact vet.biomed@biomed.au.dk.
Revised 08.10.2025
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Jakob le Fèvre Harslund