Recommended protocol for the Syrian hamster embryo (SHE) cell transformation assay

Area of Science:

• Toxicology
• Cell Biology
• Carcinogenesis Research

Background:

• The Syrian hamster embryo (SHE) cell transformation assay (CTA) is a validated in vitro method for carcinogenicity testing.
• SHE cells are normal, diploid, and genetically stable, possessing metabolic activation capabilities for certain carcinogens.
• The assay detects phenotypic changes indicative of neoplastic transformation, a key step in carcinogenesis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present standardized protocols for the SHE cell transformation assay (CTA) at pH 6.7 and pH 7.0.
• To facilitate the use of SHE CTA within the European Centre for the Validation of Alternative Methods (ECVAM) prevalidation study.
• To establish a foundation for the development of a future OECD test guideline for CTA.

Main Methods:

• Utilizes Syrian hamster embryo (SHE) cells, which are normal, diploid, and non-tumourigenic.
• The cell transformation assay (CTA) is based on detecting phenotypic changes in cell colonies.
• Employs cryopreserved cells to improve assay practicality and reduce variability, as developed by Pienta et al.

Main Results:

• Presents common versions of the SHE pH 6.7 CTA and SHE pH 7.0 CTA protocols.
• These protocols were utilized in the ECVAM prevalidation study on CTA.
• Photo catalogues are provided to aid in the interpretation of results.

Conclusions:

• The presented SHE CTA protocols are recommended for future use.
• These standardized methods, along with visual aids, should serve as a basis for an OECD test guideline.
• The SHE CTA is a valuable alternative to traditional animal testing for chemical carcinogenicity assessment.