Adipose tissue explant culture using PDMS flow chambers: an alternative to static explant culture

As obesity continues to rise, it is important we can effectively study adipose tissue. However, adipose tissue is notoriously difficult to culture ex vivo due to fragility, bouyancy, and high nutrient demant. To address these challenges, we developed a novel approach using polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) flow chambers attached to a micro peristaltic pump for culture of primary adipose tissue explants. Our results demonstrate that adipose tissue remains viable and functional in flow chambers, therefore providing an alternative to static explant culture in a dish. , , # Data from: Adipose tissue explant culture using PDMS flow chambers: an alternative to static explant culture

Dataset DOI: [10.5061/dryad.866t1g22t](10.5061/dryad.866t1g22t)

## Description of the data and file structure

All experiments were performed at UCLA in Los Angeles, CA. Flow chambers for culture of primary adipose tissue explants were designed in house and fabricated using polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) and 0.4 micron polyethylene terephthalate (PET) membranes. Once produced, chambers were placed in 37˚C tissue culture incubators and attached to a mini peristaltic pump to allow for media perfusion. Tissue explants in flow chambers were assessed for viability using resazurin assays and by measurement of lactate dehydrogenase in media effluent. Explants were then treated with isoproterenol and insulin to test for induction and inhibition of lipolysis, respectively, by colorimetric glycerol assay of media effluent. Finally, explants were collected after incubation in chambers and ..., Human adipose tissue remnant samples were collected by the UCLA Translational Pathology Core Laboratory after obtaining written informed consent to use samples for research purposes which may result in publication (IRB-11-2504). Distribution of samples to our laboratory was de-identified and included no protected health information. Information provided was as follows: age, sex, diagnosis, tissue location, height, weight, BMI.