Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 27, 2026
06:48
Semi-Automated Phenotypic Analysis of Functional 3D Spheroid Cell Cultures
Published on: August 18, 2023
99.4K
Cell-free DNA in a three-dimensional spheroid cell culture model: A preliminary study
Janine Aucamp1, Carlemi Calitz2, Abel J Bronkhorst1
1Human Metabolomics, North-West University, Private Bag X6001, Potchefstroom, 2520, South Africa.
The International Journal of Biochemistry & Cell Biology
|June 29, 2017
Summary
Three-dimensional (3D) spheroid cultures offer a simplified model for studying cell-free DNA (cfDNA). This approach effectively mirrors in vivo conditions, allowing cfDNA to serve as a marker for spheroid growth and stability.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Cell Biology
- Biotechnology
Background:
- Investigating cell-free DNA (cfDNA) functions is challenging due to numerous release sources in circulation.
- Three-dimensional (3D) spheroid cell cultures offer a more in vivo-like model for cfDNA research.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate 3D spheroid cultures as a simplified model for cfDNA research.
- To assess cfDNA as a marker for spheroid growth and stability.
Main Methods:
- Isolated cfDNA from C3A spheroid cultures in rotating bioreactors.
- Monitored spheroid growth using planimetry, LDH activity, and glucose consumption.
- Correlated cfDNA characteristics with spheroid growth and stability.
Main Results:
- cfDNA characteristics mirrored changes in spheroid growth and stability.
- cfDNA findings correlated with previous 2D culture and human plasma research.
- 3D spheroid cultures provide a "closed-circuit" model with limited cfDNA sources.
Conclusions:
- 3D spheroid cultures serve as effective in vivo-simulating models for cfDNA research.
- cfDNA can act as a marker for spheroid growth, development, and culture stability.
- Combining 3D cultures and cfDNA research optimizes both fields for in vivo and clinical applications.
