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

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. 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.