Synthetic matrices reveal contributions of ECM biophysical and biochemical properties to epithelial morphogenesis.

ABSTRACT: Epithelial cells cultured within collagen and laminin gels proliferate to form hollow and polarized spherical structures, recapitulating the formation of a rudimentary epithelial organ. However, the contributions of extracellular matrix (ECM) biochemical and biophysical properties to morphogenesis are poorly understood because of uncontrolled presentation of multiple adhesive ligands, limited control over mechanical properties, and lot-to-lot compositional variability in these natural ECMs. We engineered synthetic ECM-mimetic hydrogels with independent control over adhesive ligand density, mechanical properties, and proteolytic degradation to study the impact of ECM properties on epithelial morphogenesis. Normal cyst growth, polarization, and lumen formation were restricted to a narrow ran

SUBMITTER: Enemchukwu NO 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4700478 | biostudies-literature | 2016 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature