Cultrex Basement Membrane Extract, PathClear, with Phenol Red

FAQs for Cultrex Basement Membrane Extract, PathClear, with Phenol Red

• What kinds of tumor cells or biopsy specimens grow in vivo with Cultrex® BME?

  Many cell lines and tumor biopsy specimens (usually cut into small fragments) have been found to grow in vivo when implanted with Cultrex^® BME. These include melanoma, intestinal, prostate, breast, lung, renal, and liver cancers as well as the 3T3 mouse embryonic fibroblast cell line.

• How does Cultrex^® Basement Membrane Extract (BME) promote cell differentiation?

  All epithelial and endothelial cells are in contact with a basement membrane matrix on at least one of their surfaces. By providing them with their natural matrix in vitro as a substrate for the cells that provides biological cues, the cells can assume a more physiological morphology (i.e. correct shape) and begin expression of cell-lineage specific proteins. Two-dimensional plastic surfaces, in combination with serum-containing media, cause cells to flatten, proliferate and de-differentiate.

• How should Cultrex Basement Membrane Extract (BME) be stored and handled?

  Cultrex BME should be stored at or below -20°C for optimal stability. Preparation of working aliquots is recommended. Cultrex BME should be thawed overnight on ice at 4°C, however long term storage at 4°C is not recommended. Freeze/thaw cycles and gel-liquid phase transitions should be avoided, since they can compromise product integrity.

• What is the percent of Laminin I in Cultrex® Basement Membrane Extract, PathClear, Catalog # 3432-010-01?

  Cultrex® Basement Membrane Extract (BME), Pathclear, is composed of ≤ 60 % of Laminin I. Laminin is the major component of Cultrex BME. Other components are Collagen IV, which makes up ≤ 40% and Entactin which makes up ≤ 10%.