Conference report: host cell protein workshop at the 2012 annual bioassay meeting of the biopharmaceutical emerging best practices association. 
At its 2012 Annual Bioassay Meeting, the Biopharmaceutical Emerging Best Practices Association held a 1-day workshop on host cell protein assays, which reflected the recent increase in activity and interest in this field.  The workshop included 13 oral presentations and five posters and was attended by 70 delegates.  It provided the opportunity for experts and newcomers to the field to discuss the particular challenges presented by these assays, addressing both technical issues and the theoretical considerations for future strategies.  A number of case studies illustrated various advances that have been made and the limitations in current methodology.  A further workshop, covering host cell protein and residual DNA in biotechnology products, will be held jointly with the US Pharmacopeia in June 2013.