Cryopreservation and passaging optimization for Galea spixii (Wagler, 1831) adult skin fibroblast lines: A step forward in species management and genetic studies

• Published in: Acta histochemica 2024-10, Vol.126 (5-7), p.152185, Article 152185
• Main Authors: Aquino, Leonardo Vitorino Costa de, Olindo, Samara Lima, Silva, Yara Letícia Frutuoso e, Oliveira, Lhara Ricarliany Medeiros de, Moura, Yasmin Beatriz França, Rodrigues, Ana Lívia Rocha, Praxedes, Érika Almeida, Oliveira, Moacir Franco de, Silva, Alexandre Rodrigues, Pereira, Alexsandra Fernandes
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Cell characterization; in vitro culture; Rodentia; Slow freezing
• ISSN: 0065-1281; 1618-0372; 1618-0372
• DOI: 10.1016/j.acthis.2024.152185

In vitro culture of fibroblasts is a technique based on cell isolation, physiological characterization, and cryopreservation. This technique has not been described for Galea spixii, therefore, it can be used to learn about its cellular biology and genetic diversity. We established fibroblast lines of six G. spixii individuals from several passages (second, fifth, eighth, and tenth) and cryopreserved them. Fibroblasts recovered from skin biopsies were identified based on morphology, immunocytochemistry, and karyotyping. The cells were analyzed for morphology, ultrastructure, viability, proliferation, metabolism, oxidative stress, bioenergetic potential, and apoptosis before and after cryopreservation. After the eighth passage, the fibroblasts showed morphological and karyotypic changes, although their viability, metabolism, and proliferation did not change. An increase in oxidative stress and bioenergetic potential from the fifth to the eighth passages were also observed. Post cryopreservation, cell damage with respect to the ultrastructure, viability, proliferative rate, apoptotic levels, oxidative stress, and bioenergetic potential were verified. Fibroblasts up to the tenth passage could be cultured in vitro. However, cells at the fifth passage were of better quality to be used for reproductive techniques. Additionally, optimization of the cryopreservation protocol is essential to improve the physiological parameters of these cells. [Display omitted] •The G. spixii can contribute as a wild rodent model for biological, cellular, and molecular studies.•Fibroblastic lines of G. spixii up to the fifth passage show fewer morphological and physiological alterations.•Although the cryopreservation of the fibroblastic lines has been used efficiently, the optimization is necessary.