Acellular normal and fibrotic human lung matrices as a culture system for in vitro investigation.

ABSTRACT:

Rationale

Extracellular matrix (ECM) is a dynamic tissue that contributes to organ integrity and function, and its regulation of cell phenotype is a major aspect of cell biology. However, standard in vitro culture approaches are of unclear physiologic relevance because they do not mimic the compositional, architectural, or distensible nature of a living organ. In the lung, fibroblasts exist in ECM-rich interstitial spaces and are key effectors of lung fibrogenesis.

Objectives

To better address how ECM influences fibroblast phenotype in a disease-specific manner, we developed a culture system using acellular human normal and fibrotic lungs.

Methods

Decellularization was achieved using treatment with detergents, salts, and DNase. The resultant matrices can be sectioned

SUBMITTER: Booth AJ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3530219 | biostudies-literature | 2012 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature