A Rapid Cytotoxic Antibody Test to Determine Species of Cell Cultures

The dye exclusion test as a criterion of specific immune cytotoxicity was adapted for rapid and simple identification of species of origin of tissue culture cells. Twenty-one cell lines of human or animal origin reacted specifically with antisera prepared against homologous, hut not against heterologous, cell types. Antibodies to monkey and human-derived strains did not exhibit cross-reactions in these studies, and identification of cell lines of the two species was readily accomplished. Freshly trypsinized cells and two cell lines removed from frozen storage were easily identified. Cell lines received from other laboratories with incorrect species designation could be easily tested and their species of origin identified.