Dynamic and influential interaction of cancer cells with normal epithelial cells in 3D culture

摘要: The cancer microenvironment has a strong impact on the growth and dynamics of cells. Conventional 2D culture systems, however, do not reflect in vivo conditions, impeding detailed studies cell dynamics. This work aims to establish method reveal interaction normal epithelial cells using 3D time-lapse. GFP-labelled breast cells, MDA-MB-231, were co-cultured with mCherry-labelled non-cancerous MDCK, gel matrix. In culture, spherical morphology (epithelial sphere) thus providing accessibility basal surface epithelia, similar condition. Cell movement was monitored time-lapse analyses. Ultrastructural, immunocytochemical protein expression analyses also performed following study. contrast system, whereby most MDA-MB-231 exhibit spindle-shaped as single found be or else formed aggregates, both which motile. exhibited round spindle shapes, dynamic changes from one shape other, visible within matter hours. When displayed attraction spheres, proceeded surround engulf mass. surrounded eventually destroyed, becoming debris, taken into However, when there relatively large population did spheres effectively, despite repeated contacts. number showed reduced monocarboxylate transporter-1, suggesting change metabolism. A decreased level gelatin-digesting ability well production matrix metaroproteinase-2 observed. is powerful technique investigate cellular response microenvironment. can useful for various aspects such as; different combinations non-cancer types, addressing organ-specific affinity host monitoring anti-cancer drugs.