Fine structure of subcultivated stratified squamous epithelium

Subcultivated rat lingual epithelium derived from primary expiants remains mitotically active, possesses an organellar complement similar to the parent tissue, and undergoes terminal differentiation. Successful growth of primary cultures requires an incubation temperature below 34 °C and the addition of dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) to the medium. The subcultures retain a stable morphological phenotype through a minimum of 15 passages. Cultures are long-lived and may be maintained for one year or more in any passage.