TYPES OF MATRICES IN 3D CELL CULTURE
In addition to 2D cell culture techniques, 3D cell culture has gradually affirmed its role and position in the field of cell biology. So why do we need 3D cell culture, and is a matrix necessary for 3D cell culture?
The Need for 3D Cell Culture
While the contributions of 2D cell culture techniques to the development of cell biology cannot be denied, they still present certain challenges such as difficulties in scaling, inability to reflect cell-cell interactions in a multidimensional space, and limitations in mimicking the proliferation characteristics of cells in tissue. Therefore, for certain research fields and applications such as drug evaluation, cancer research, cell interaction studies, and developmental biology, 2D cell culture techniques cannot meet all the research requirements, and 3D cell culture techniques are required.
Matrix for 3D Cell Culture
One of the key considerations in 2D cell culture is the surface matrix. Similarly, in 3D cell culture, the matrix plays an indispensable role. The matrix is a substance added to the cell culture process that supports and anchors the cells, facilitating cell-cell interactions.
3D cell culture matrices are divided into several common groups:
Scaffolds: These structures can be natural or synthetic. Natural scaffolds are derived from tissue decellularization and mimic the microenvironment inside the body, promoting cell development and high compatibility. Synthetic scaffolds are typically porous to support cell adhesion and proliferation. Common materials include poly(lactic acid) (PLA), polyglycolic acid (PGA), and polycaprolactone (PCL).
Extracellular Matrix (ECM) Proteins: These proteins, such as collagen, fibronectin, laminin, and basement membrane extract, form the extracellular matrix, providing structural support and aiding in cell attachment, interaction, and differentiation during 3D cell culture.
Hydrogels: This group includes hydrophilic polymer networks such as alginate, agarose, and hyaluronic acid (HA). These natural compounds are used as matrices in 3D cell culture, offering water retention, cell encapsulation, and support for cellular activities.
Synthetic Polymers: Biocompatible synthetic polymers such as polyethylene glycol (PEG), poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA), and polyacrylamide (PAA) are used to create scaffolds that support cell attachment and growth. These polymers can be tailored during production to suit different cell lines and purposes.
Thermo Solutions for 3D Cell Culture Matrices
To meet the demand for 3D cell culture matrices, Thermo Scientific has developed products such as Geltrex™ LDEV-Free Reduced Growth Factor Basement Membrane Matrix and AlgiMatrix™ Microplate with detailed features:
Geltrex™ LDEV-Free Reduced Growth Factor Basement Membrane Matrix: Contains laminin, collagen IV, entactin, and heparin sulfate proteoglycan. Geltrex supports the promotion and maintenance of cell morphology and is suitable for various cell types such as epithelial, endothelial, smooth muscle cells, and induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs).
AlgiMatrix™ Microplate: A multi-well plate with hydrogel matrices made from alginate, forming porous structures that allow cell growth in 3D. The product is versatile for different cell types and simplifies 3D cell culture processes.
For more matrix options for 3D cell culture, visit the following link:
Extracellular Matrices for 3D Cell Culture - Thermo Fisher
Conclusion:
Similar to 2D cell culture, 3D cell culture also requires the involvement of matrices. Depending on the needs, goals, and characteristics of the cell line, selecting the appropriate matrix is crucial to achieving the desired cell quality.
