Standardized derivation and biobanking of dermal fibroblasts using explant culture: A pilot protocol for translational neurodegeneration research

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.21142/mecp.2026.1.2.e024

Keywords:

Biological Specimen Banks, Biopsy, Cell Culture Techniques, Fibroblasts, Genetics

Abstract

Objectives: To describe a pilot standardized protocol for the collection, explant culture, cryopreservation, and biobanking of dermal fibroblasts derived from 4-mm skin punch biopsies. Methods: Dermal fibroblasts were obtained from 4-mm skin punch biopsies collected from two healthy donors. The protocol incorporated tissue microfragmentation, the use of pre-wetted glass coverslips to promote explant adherence, and an enriched fibroblast culture medium. Results: Fibroblast outgrowth was observed within 5–7 days after biopsy collection, and cultures reached sufficient density for expansion within 2–3 weeks. Cells displayed the characteristic spindle-shaped morphology of dermal fibroblasts under phase-contrast microscopy. Post-thaw viability exceeded 85% in both cryopreserved cell lines, while quality control testing confirmed sterility and the absence of mycoplasma contamination in all stored samples. Conclusions: This pilot study demonstrates the feasibility of establishing, cryopreserving, and biobanking dermal fibroblast cultures from small skin biopsies using an explant culture approach. The protocol provides a practical framework for the development of cellular biobanking resources and highlights the potential application of dermal fibroblast cultures in neurogenetic and neurodegenerative disease research.

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Published

2026-06-25

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Section

Brief original

How to Cite

1.
Mayanga-Herrera A, Marreros-Liñan K, Illanes-Manrique M, Tapia-Rojas S, Orihuela-Castillo D, Giron-Davila P, et al. Standardized derivation and biobanking of dermal fibroblasts using explant culture: A pilot protocol for translational neurodegeneration research. Med Educ Clin Pract [Internet]. 2026 Jun. 25 [cited 2026 Jun. 29];1(2):e024. Available from: https://revistas.cientifica.edu.pe/index.php/mecp/article/view/3625