Characterization of cellular dynamics and function of cells from a novel microenvironment

Abstract

<P> A NOVEL MICROCAPSULE (3D) SYSTEM THAT CLOSELY MIMICS THE IN VIVO GROWTH CONDITION WAS RECENTLY DEVELOPED. SUCH A SYSTEM PROVIDES MECHANICAL SUPPORT FOR THE CELLS AND HAS SHOWN TO ENHANCE THE GROWTH AND FUNCTION OF VARIOUS CELL TYPES INCLUDING THAT OF SENSITIVE, ANCHORAGE-DEPENDENT HEPATOCYTES. THE CELLS CULTURED IN THE MICROCAPSULE, UNLIKE THEIR MONOLAYER (2D) CULTURED CELLS, ARE SURROUNDED BY AN IMMEDIATE MICROENVIRONMENT AND CAN BE HARVESTED LESS DISRUPTIVELY WITHOUT ANY HARSH PROTEASE TREATMENT.</P><P> THIS WORK SERVES TO HIGHLIGHT THE DIFFERENCES BETWEEN THE TWO CULTURE SYSTEMS AND TO DO A BROAD CHARACTERIZATION OF THE EFFECTS OF THE 3D MICROENVIRONMENT ON CELLULAR DYNAMICS AND FUNCTIONS.</P>