Figure 4From: Collagen I but not Matrigel matrices provide an MMP-dependent barrier to ovarian cancer cell penetration MMP requirement for spheroid cell penetration into 3D matrices is matrix specific. Ovarian cancer cell spheroids, generated by hanging drop culture, were embedded in polymerized matrices of A, Matrigel (undiluted, ~11 mg/ml) B, pepsin-extracted collagen I, (Vitrogen) and C, acid-extracted collagen I (2.1 mg/ml). Images reveal the spheroid edge, where cell penetration of matrices was apparent. An entire spheroid is shown in the lower inset. Cell penetration of Matrigel and pepsin-extracted collagen I (Vitrogen) occured despite MMP blockade with GM6001. In contrast, invasion of acid-extracted collagen 1 was prevented by MMP inhibition. Representative results are shown using OVCA429 spheroids at 60, 36, and 44 hrs for Matrigel, Vitrogen and acid-extracted collagen I, respectively.Back to article page