Derivation of embryonic somatic cells and transgene-free iPSCs from two important Neotropical fish species

• Grant number: 23/08890-7
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Doctorate
• Start date: March 01, 2024
• End date: August 31, 2027
• Field of knowledge: Agronomical Sciences - Veterinary Medicine - Animal Clinics and Surgery
• Principal Investigator: Fabiana Fernandes Bressan
• Grantee: Jenyffer Mairely Rosero Alpala
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Zootecnia e Engenharia de Alimentos (FZEA). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). Pirassununga , SP, Brazil

Abstract

This project aims to derive embryonic somatic cells (ESoCs) and, for the first time, transgene-free iPSCs from two important Neotropical fish species: the yellow-tailed lambari, Astyanax altiparanae and the piracanjuba, Brycon orbignyanus. The yellow-tailed lambari has become a model organism for basic and applied sciences, with such importance that the techniques established in this species can be replicated in other Characiformes fish. B. orbignyanus is an endangered Characiformes species of great importance for aquatic ecosystems and for the economy, as it is a source of food for artisanal fishing. Thus, conservation strategies that address the environmental, social, and economic impacts of B. orbignyanus stock depletion are urgently needed. Thus, cells derived from ESoCs and iPSCs will be obtained by differentiating these cells into myoblasts, mesenchymal stromal cells, endothelial cells and adipose cells, which will then be cultured in hybrid scaffolds to form 3D structures similar to fish fillets. With this project, it is expected to contribute to a more conscious management of neotropical fish species of economic interest, through the implementation of innovative technologies that reduce the environmental impact of fishing,while boosting the field of cell-cultured fish, especially in Brazil.