Formation of Human Fibroblast Aggregates (Spheroids) by Rotational Culture

Abstract

In the current study, we attempted to form aggregates of fibroblasts by rotationally shaking, declining fibroblast–material interactions, and augmenting cell–cell interactions. In addition, to promote cell–cell interactions, the medium was supplemented with insulin, dexamethasone, and basic fibroblast growth. Under such improved culture conditions, normal neonatal human dermal fibroblasts formed spheroidal aggregates within 1 day of rotation on a rotational shaker. The aggregates that formed had irregular shapes and were composed from only several cells after 12 h. However, they became nearly spheroidal after 24 h of shaking. The aggregates were approximately 240 μm in diameter. After 36 h of shaking, their shape became more rounded and their surfaces became smoother. No evidence of necrosis in the center of the aggregates was observed, although a small number of dead cells was scattered throughout the aggregates. After 24–36 h, aggregates of normal human fibroblasts were collected and reinoculated onto a scaffold composed of polyglycolic acid, which is used commercially as a scaffold for artificial skin, coated with collagen. The aggregates were successfully trapped to the mesh of polyglycolic acid and became attached within 24 h. Therefore, the aggregates could provide an alternative method for seeding fibroblasts to scaffold for an artificial skin, such as a mesh of polyglycolic acid.