Screening of Low-Tumorigenic MDCK Cells for Potential Influenza Vaccine Substrates and Transcriptomic Analyses

Area of Science:

• Biotechnology
• Cell Biology
• Vaccinology

Background:

• Madin-Darby Canine Kidney (MDCK) cells are widely used in vaccine production but possess inherent tumorigenic properties, raising safety concerns.
• Developing screening methods for low-tumorigenic cell lines is crucial for advancing influenza vaccine development and ensuring product safety.

Purpose of the Study:

• To establish and characterize a low-tumorigenic MDCK cell line for potential use as a cellular substrate in influenza vaccine manufacturing.
• To systematically evaluate the biological characteristics and tumorigenicity of the selected cell line using in vivo models.

Main Methods:

• Monoclonal screening was employed to isolate a low-tumorigenic MDCK cell clone (MDCK-20B9).
• Tumorigenicity was assessed in male nude mice (BALB/c nu/nu).
• Biological characteristics, including growth curves and transcriptomic features, were comprehensively analyzed and compared to parental MDCK cells.

Main Results:

• A stable and consistent low-tumorigenic MDCK cell line (MDCK-20B9) was successfully obtained.
• Transcriptomic analysis revealed significant differential gene expression, with 2198 genes identified (902 upregulated, 1296 downregulated).
• Enrichment analysis highlighted involvement in pathways such as acute-phase response, retinol metabolism, cell cycle, and cancer pathways.

Conclusions:

• The study successfully screened a stable, low-tumorigenic MDCK cell line, MDCK-20B9.
• This cell line offers a promising alternative cellular substrate for influenza vaccine production, addressing safety concerns.
• The findings provide a strong theoretical and practical foundation for the clinical application of this cell line in vaccine development.