SOP-028: Cell Culture Record Keeping and Documentation
Purpose
To standardize the documentation of mammalian cell culture activities, ensuring traceability, reproducibility, and accurate laboratory records.
Scope
This SOP applies to all mammalian cell culture procedures performed within the laboratory, including routine maintenance, experimental work, cryopreservation, and quality control.
Responsibilities
The operator is responsible for:
- Recording all cell culture activities promptly.
- Maintaining accurate and complete records.
- Correcting documentation errors according to laboratory policy.
- Ensuring records remain legible and traceable.
Required Materials
Equipment
- Laboratory notebook or electronic laboratory notebook (ELN)
- Cell culture record sheets
- Permanent laboratory marker
- Labels
Procedure
1. Identify the Culture
Verify and record:
- Cell line name
- Culture identification number (if applicable)
- Passage number
- Culture vessel
2. Record Routine Procedures
Document all routine activities, including:
- Medium changes
- Passaging
- Cell seeding
- Cryopreservation
- Cell recovery
- Cell counting
- Quality control procedures
3. Record Experimental Information
When applicable, document:
- Experimental purpose
- Treatment conditions
- Reagents used
- Sample identifiers
- Collection dates
4. Record Observations
Document any relevant observations, including:
- Cell morphology
- Confluency
- Viability
- Growth characteristics
- Abnormal findings
- Suspected contamination
5. Review Documentation
Review entries for completeness before concluding the procedure.
Correct any documentation errors according to laboratory policy without obscuring the original entry.
Acceptance Criteria
| Parameter | Acceptance Criterion |
|---|---|
| Cell line identification | Complete |
| Passage number | Recorded |
| Procedure details | Complete |
| Documentation | Legible and traceable |
Critical Control Points
- Record information immediately after completing each procedure.
- Maintain consistent cell line naming.
- Use permanent ink for paper records.
- Never erase or obscure previous entries.
- Maintain chronological records.
Documentation
Each record should include:
- Date
- Cell line
- Passage number
- Procedure performed
- Culture vessel
- Operator initials
- Observations
- Deviations (if applicable)
Quality Control
Verify:
- All entries are complete.
- Cell line identification is accurate.
- Passage numbers are updated correctly.
- Documentation is signed or initialed.
- Records are stored securely.
Troubleshooting
| Observation | Possible Cause | Corrective Action |
|---|---|---|
| Missing information | Incomplete documentation | Complete records immediately while information is available |
| Incorrect passage number | Recording error | Correct according to laboratory documentation policy |
| Inconsistent cell line names | Non-standard naming | Use standardized laboratory nomenclature |
| Untraceable samples | Inadequate labeling | Verify sample labels before every procedure |
Safety Considerations
- Protect laboratory records from damage or unauthorized modification.
- Maintain confidentiality of research records where applicable.
- Ensure electronic records are regularly backed up according to institutional policy.