Differences in monolayer and three-dimensional (3D) culture systems have been
recognized for several years. Despite the recognized importance of 3D systems,
low cost and convenience of monolayer culture are still readily used for
metabolic and nutritional studies. Here, we present part 1 of a 2-part series
that will highlight (1) a novel and cost-effective model for culturing 3T3-L1
preadipocytes in 3D agarose as well as (2) an initial study showing the
successful use of this 3D model for experimental analysis of these cells treated
with cinnamon extract while suspended in agarose. In part 1, we provide a full
characterization of the model system for the 3T3-L1 cells that demonstrate the
functionality and convenience of this system. Importantly, we note spontaneous
differentiation to adipocytes while cultured under these methods, independent of
chemical induction. We present a 2.5-week time course with rounded cells forming
vacuoles as early as 24 hours and accumulation of lipid detectable by Oil Red O
stain at 0.5 weeks. Serum selection, lipid volume determination, and cell size
are characterized. We conclusively demonstrate adipogenesis based on a
peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) detection using
immunohistochemistry (IHC) of sections from these 3D cultures. Methods,
materials and recommendations are described as well as proposed benefits to the
use of this culture system for 3T3-L1 cells.
Reactivation of granulomatous diseases is a well-documented risk of biologic therapy. This case highlights a patient well controlled on chronic infliximab therapy, developing symptoms consistent with disease progression. The patient underwent a surgical laparoscopy given concern of small bowel obstruction in which diffuse, peritoneal nodularity was seen. Further staining revealed broad-budding yeast and blastomyces urinary antigen resulted as positive. The patient was treated for disseminated blastomycosis, and his symptoms completely resolved.
scite is a Brooklyn-based organization that helps researchers better discover and understand research articles through Smart Citations–citations that display the context of the citation and describe whether the article provides supporting or contrasting evidence. scite is used by students and researchers from around the world and is funded in part by the National Science Foundation and the National Institute on Drug Abuse of the National Institutes of Health.