Inhibition of Senescence in Progeria Skin Fibroblasts Cultured in Xeno-Free Media

초록

Hutchinson-Gilford Progeria Syndrome (HGPS) is a rare genetic disorder characterized by the accumulation of the abnormal progerin protein, resulting in limited cell growth and premature aging. This study investigated the effects of xeno-free (XF) media on the proliferative capacity and aging of HGPS fibroblasts. Xeno-free culture media, composed of human-derived components or chemically defined ingredients without any animal-derived substances, can help maintain cellular characteristics and provide a stable culture environment. Commercially available HGPS skin fibroblasts were cultured either in conventional Eagle's Minimum Essential Medium (EMEM) or xeno-free media. HGPS cells cultured in xeno-free media displayed significant alterations, including reduced cell size, absence of cell stacking, increased cell number, and shorter population doubling time. Additionally, there was an increase in BrdU-positive cells, elevated levels of phosphorylated retinoblastoma protein (Rb), decreased expression of p21 and progerin, improved mitochondrial health, and reduced β-galactosidase-positive cells. In conclusion, xeno-free media shows the potential to inhibit the senescence of HGPS fibroblasts. Further research is needed to clarify the specific mechanisms underlying these effects.