A New Model System for Studying Lacrimal Physiology Using Cultured Lacrimal Gland Acinar Cells on Matrigel® Rafts

We have recently established procedures for the isolation of highly purified lacrimal gland acinar cells (pLGAC) (Guo et al., 2000) and a culture method that promotes proliferation of the cells (Schonthal et al., 2000). Many studies have shown the benefits of seeding lacrimal cells onto Matrigel coated plates (Kelleher et al., 1991; Menerey et al., 1994; Millar, et al., 1996; Chen et al., 1998). Our procedure utilizes a method which coats the pLGAC with Matrigel to more closely mimic the in vivo condition where acinar cells are enveloped by matrix molecules on their basal surfaces. This has been achieved by trapping pLGAC in Matrigel rafts. These free-floating raft cultures have been maintained in vitro for up to 28 days for morphological and physiological studies.