Cell survival in a three-dimensional matrix

ntegrin -mediated adhesion acts as a pluripotent mediator of cell signaling, triggering many pathways that promote proliferation and permit them to resist exogenous proapototic insults. To date, most studies have focused on apoptosis among cells adherent to rigid tissue-culture plastic substrates that tends to maximize integrin survival signaling. The physiological interpretation of such studies remains unclear. Here we describe methods to study integrin-mediated cell survival using matched cell populations that differ only in integrin expression, using a three-dimensional (3D) extracellular matrix culture. The preparation of appropriate cell types as welt as the use Of 3D collagen and fibrin gels is described. Methods to assess apoptosis and their application in the model are detailed.