In Vitro Assessment of Human Natural Killer Cell Migration and Invasion

Cell invasion assays are important to obtain valuable functional data relating to tissue migration and invasion of effector lymphocytes. Boyden chamber invasion assays represent a reductionist system that allows for easy manipulation using various extracellular matrix (ECM) components addressing migratory functions or invasion into/through a three-dimensional matrix where migration and invasion inhibitors as well as stimulators can be added. Presented here is a description using the Transwell(®) system where invasion and migration can be studied. It constitutes an inner cell culture well with a (PET) polycarbonate filter with 3-8 μm pores that allow for cells to transverse to the bottom chamber where they can be recorded by various methods (Fig. 1). The polycarbonate filters may be coated with ECM proteins for migration and adhesive studies or covered with a thick layer that occludes the pores to address matrix degradation, i.e., invasion as described in this chapter.