Protocol to fabricate elastomer microwells for three-dimensional culture of primary adipocytes

STAR Protoc. 2024 Sep 20;5(3):103264. doi: 10.1016/j.xpro.2024.103264. Epub 2024 Aug 14.

Abstract

Our understanding of how adipocytes influence metabolic signaling, immune function, and cancer progression remains limited as the culture of primary adipocytes is challenging. Here, we present a protocol to fabricate elastomer microwells for three-dimensional culture of collagen-embedded adipocytes. We describe steps to cure and functionalize elastomer microwells and to isolate and embed primary adipocytes. We then detail how to culture and analyze adipocyte-collagen gels. This protocol provides broad applications to improve our understanding of adipocyte biology in health and disease.

Keywords: Biotechnology and bioengineering; Cell Biology; Material sciences; Metabolism; Tissue Engineering.

MeSH terms

  • Adipocytes* / cytology
  • Adipocytes* / metabolism
  • Animals
  • Cell Culture Techniques / methods
  • Cell Culture Techniques, Three Dimensional / methods
  • Cells, Cultured
  • Collagen / chemistry
  • Elastomers* / chemistry
  • Humans
  • Mice

Substances

  • Elastomers
  • Collagen