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Updated: Aug 21, 2026
Fibroblast-Derived 3D Matrix System Applicable to Endothelial Tube Formation Assay
Published on: December 26, 2019
Modulation of human adventitial fibroblast function by photodynamic therapy of collagen matrix
J Heckenkamp1, M Aleksic, M Gawenda
1Division of Vascular Surgery, University of Cologne, Koeln, Germany. j_heckenkamp@hotmail.com
Objectives:
Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a promising strategy to limit restenosis. PDT depletes the resident cells from the vessel wall without adventitial cell ingrowth. This study was undertaken to further explore the mechanisms by which PDT of matrix acts on key mechanisms in the development of restenosis.
Materials And Methods:
Control and PDT-treated collagen type-I matrix gels were prepared. Thereafter, untreated human fibroblasts were seeded on matrix gels (n=12). Fibroblast proliferation and invasive migration were quantified by calibrated phase contrast microscopy. Fibroblast bFGF and TGF-beta1 mRNA expression were analyzed using a quantitative real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction.
Results:
Fibroblast proliferation on PDT-treated matrix gels was reduced by 30 and 76% after 3 and 7 days, respectively (3 days: P
Conclusions:
PDT of matrix-induced reduction of bFGF and TGF-beta1 mRNA levels may be important mechanisms of reducing fibroblast proliferation and invasive migration and thus the development of restenosis. These newly identified mechanisms highlight PDT's pleiotropic effects on the vessel wall and its potential clinical value.
