Overview
This protocol outlines the use of LunaGel™ Photocrosslinkable Extracullar Matrix (ECM) as a 3D cell culture substrate for the differentiation of C2C12 cells into myotubes. In contrast to other commonly used substrates such as collagen I, the amorphous structure of LunaGel™ ECMs significantly reduces shrinkage of 3D cell culture samples over the duration of culture. LunaGel™’s unique photocrosslinking technology enables scientists to closely replicate mechanical proerpties of healthy and diseased muscle tissues and study cell biology in highly physiological conditions.
Overview
Angiogenesis and vasculogenesis are processes underlying the formation of new blood vessels. They involve the migration, growth, and differentiation of endothelial and supporting cell types, such as pericytes. Angiogenesis plays a critical role in the initiation and progression of diseases such as many cancers, autoimmune diseases, rheumatoid arhritis, and others. In vitro endothelial tube formation assays are particularly useful models for studying and modulating processes underlying the formation of new blood vessels to develop novel therapeutic approaches that may limit the progression of aforementioned diseases.
