Expression data from normal human spheroid-forming keratinocytes in monolayer mass culture and from corresponding cornified-like spheroid ring structures.. Homo sapiens

3-D suspension culture differs considerably from monolayer culture in regards to cell architecture, cell to cell contact, and cell to matrix interactions. These factors play a regulatory role in epithelial stem cell homeostasis and influence epidermal stem cells on their decision to remain quiescent or to activate self-renewal. We used microarrays to determine the global programme of gene expression underlying spheroid ring formation and identified distinct gene programs involved in this process. Overall design: Normal human keratinocytes primary cultures were stablished from neonatal foreskin epidermis. Multicellular spheroid cultures of normal human keratinocytes were generated and then plated into an uncoated polystyrene culture dish. Spheroid-derived cells were allowed to migrate until a cornified ring formed. RNA was extracted from the cornified ring and corresponding mass cultured line. All cells used in the experiment originated from the same individual.