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Published on: May 30, 2019
Successful cryopreservation of Wuchereria bancrofti microfilariae
Abstract:
A fast freezing technique developed by James (1981) significantly improved the yield of schistosome larvae that could be stored in liquid nitrogen. This was adapted by Ham et al. (1981) to the freezing of microfilariae of Onchocerca spp. with excellent results. They found 70 to 80% of the cryopreserved larvae remained viable using this method and since then Ham (personal communication) has successfully applied the same technique to Brugia malayi microfilariae. The further application to Wuchereria bancrofti is described.
Insights
A novel cryopreservation technique enhances the survival of parasitic larvae. This method, applied to schistosome larvae and microfilariae, shows high viability rates for long-term storage.
Area of Science:
- Parasitology
- Cryobiology
- Veterinary Medicine
Background:
- Cryopreservation is crucial for storing parasitic organisms for research and disease control.
- Previous methods had limitations in maintaining the viability of delicate larval stages.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the successful application of a rapid freezing technique to Wuchereria bancrofti microfilariae.
- To evaluate the viability of cryopreserved microfilariae using this advanced method.
Main Methods:
- Adaptation of James' (1981) rapid freezing technique for schistosome larvae.
- Application of the technique to Onchocerca spp. and Wuchereria bancrofti microfilariae.
- Assessment of post-cryopreservation larval viability.
Main Results:
- The technique, initially for schistosome larvae, yielded excellent results for Onchocerca spp. microfilariae.
- Viability rates of 70-80% were achieved for cryopreserved Onchocerca spp. microfilariae.
- Successful cryopreservation was also demonstrated for Brugia malayi and Wuchereria bancrofti microfilariae.
Conclusions:
- The rapid freezing technique is effective for cryopreserving various filarial nematode microfilariae.
- This method significantly improves the long-term storage potential of these important parasites.
- Further research can utilize this technique for maintaining parasite stocks for drug screening and vaccine development.
