Role of the matrix in modifying the growth of prostatic epithelial cells in vitro.

Preliminary data demonstrate that migration, proliferation, and differentiation of prostatic epithelial cells in vitro is altered when the cells are grown on an extracellular matrix rather than on bare plastic. Clonal plating efficiencies are used to distinguish this growth and to identify ways to provide an in vitro model for further study of prostatic carcinogenesis. Consequently, this method, with suggested refinements, may improve the understanding of prostate cancer and related disorders.