[Cell culture (collagen gel matrix) and its application for chemosensitivity test]

The usefulness of in vivo-like culture system using a specialized collagen gel matrix (Spongostan) derived from pigskin was summarized. In this culture system, the in vivo properties maintained in vitro, showing three-dimensional growth; maintenance of tissue architecture. This culture system was applied for the chemosensitivity test using human cancer specimens. There was a close association between the results of this assay and those of the nude mouse assay. Moreover, this system could be useful for the prediction of drug sensitivity against human cancers obtained from a surgery and biopsy, including scirrhous type gastric carcinomas. This in vitro assay system seems to be a promising method for chemosensitivity test, because of its rapidity and convenience.