The affinity of MCF7 breast cancer cells to hyaluronan substrates of different molecular weight and concentrations in an in vitro model.
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- Published online on: November 1, 2000 https://doi.org/10.3892/ijo.17.5.1019
- Pages: 1019-1042
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Abstract
The affinity of MCF7 breast cancer cells to hyaluronan (HA) was investigated in an in vitro model. The cells form a tightly adhering monolayer on native HA with a concentration of 5 mg/ml. On native HA at higher concentrations the cells reduce their adhesion to the substrate in favor of increased intercellular bonds, resulting in a cluster-like aggregate that tends to detach from the substrate. Aggregate formation is accomplished after 12 h incubation. The phenomenon is independent of the CD44 receptor. Degradation of native HA by hyaluronidase abolishes aggregate formation even at high HA concentrations in favor of formation of a firmly adhering monolayer. This model may help to understand tumor spread on HA tissue structures and may explain therapy successes with hyaluronidase in tumor patients.