Tissue sampling strategies and biobanking: A spearheading effort for the Marine Mammal Research and Stranding Laboratory

• Main Authors: Bondoc, Jonah L., Paran, Faith Jessica M., Aragones, Lemnuel V., Gotanco, Rachel R.
• Format: text
• Published: Animo Repository 2014
• Subjects: Biobanks—Philippines; Biological specimens—Collection and preservation—Philippines; Marine mammals; Marine Biology
• Online Access: https://animorepository.dlsu.edu.ph/faculty_research/6690
• Institution: De La Salle University

There are multiple biological samples that may be collected from live or dead marine mammal stranders including by-caught, which can be optimized for integrative research opportunity in the Philippines. Investigation of, but not limited to, their stranding events, population and molecular ecology, histopathology, infectious diseases and chemical contamination will enhance our understanding of marine environmental changes as these animals have been regarded as one of the nest sentinels of ocean health. However, practical considerations associated with tissue collection and storage increase complexities in conducting these studies. Given these obstacles and with the aim to ensure future scientific usefulness of samples and improves Philippine marine mammal research, this paper (1) presents marine mammal tissue sampling protocols and strategies suited for the country, and (2) recommends establishment of systematized Philippine Marine Mammal Tissue Bank (PMMTB), a tissue storage facility, which will be located in the Marine Mammal Research and Stranding Laboratory (MMRSL) of the Institute of Environmental Science and Meteorology (IESM), University of the Philippines Diliman (UPD). This is pioneering effort for the Philippines. In partnership with IESM’s MMRSL, some government agencies such as BFAR, the Philippine Marine Mammal Stranding Network (PMMSN) regional chapters and first responders, these suggested sampling guidelines and storage research design, adapted and modified from standard marine mammal protocols, will ultimately (1) facilitate systematic and long-term monitoring program, (2) provide a competitive edge for the country in producing high quality marine mammal results, and (3) optimize utility of samples from stranded marine mammals, and (40 develop effective conservation measures.