I used to test antiproliferative activities of chemical compounds dissolved in DMSO. I have been surprised when testing one of this compounds in HBL-100 cell line bacteria contamination appears. I thought that using DMSO as solvent at that concentration avoid the growth of microorganisms. I work under sterile conditions but the products were dissoled outside the cabinet.
Are you sure that the tube with the chemical compound was contaminated, and not the cells?
Usually, contamination is introduced during cell culture.
But to answer your question about the possibility of contaminating the tube, yes, it is possible.
It is hard for bacteria to grow in 99% DMSO.
Did you autoclave your tubes and dried them in oven before using for compounds?
I recommend to use sterile and dry tubes for compounds. Because there are chances that some airborne organisms get attached to the inner-wall of tube (under non-sterile conditions) which might get attached to the outer-wall of tip while taking the compounds for treatment.
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