Method for the study of the underside of cultured cell monolayers

Exp Cell Res. 1991 Jan;192(1):311-4. doi: 10.1016/0014-4827(91)90192-w.

Abstract

A novel procedure for reversing cell monolayers is described. Cells are embedded in liquid gelatin containing ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid, cooled down to solidify gelatin, and then reversed. The main advantage of this technique is that cells are fixed after reversing so that the extracellular matrix does not obscure the cell surface. No substantial migration of receptors is likely to have taken place judging from the concentration of fibronectin receptor in typical focal or extracellular matrix contacts.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cell Adhesion / drug effects
  • Cell Membrane / chemistry*
  • Chick Embryo
  • Cold Temperature
  • Cytological Techniques*
  • Edetic Acid / pharmacology
  • Fibroblasts / ultrastructure
  • Fibronectins / metabolism
  • Gelatin
  • Immunohistochemistry
  • Integrins / analysis*
  • Microscopy, Electron / methods
  • Receptors, Cell Surface / analysis*

Substances

  • Fibronectins
  • Integrins
  • Receptors, Cell Surface
  • extracellular matrix receptor
  • Gelatin
  • Edetic Acid