Matrix rigidity regulates cancer cell growth and cellular phenotype.

ABSTRACT:

Background

The mechanical properties of the extracellular matrix have an important role in cell growth and differentiation. However, it is unclear as to what extent cancer cells respond to changes in the mechanical properties (rigidity/stiffness) of the microenvironment and how this response varies among cancer cell lines.

Methodology/principal findings

In this study we used a recently developed 96-well plate system that arrays extracellular matrix-conjugated polyacrylamide gels that increase in stiffness by at least 50-fold across the plate. This plate was used to determine how changes in the rigidity of the extracellular matrix modulate the biological properties of tumor cells. The cell lines tested fall into one of two categories based on their proliferation on substrates

SUBMITTER: Tilghman RW 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2944843 | biostudies-literature | 2010 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature