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

Abstract

Summary: 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. : Publisher’s note: Undertaking any experimental protocol requires adherence to local institutional guidelines for laboratory safety and ethics.

Keywords

• Cell Biology
• Metabolism
• Tissue Engineering
• Biotechnology and bioengineering
• Material sciences