BACKGROUNDThe regulation of endometrial physiology and morphogenesis by the paracrine effectors has been well established using in vivo studies. A more complete understanding of the endometrial function has been delayed due, in part, to a lack of appropriate culture models. In this study, we aimed to simulate the in vivo three-dimensional (3-D) growth pattern of endometrial cells using a 3-D in vitro culture system.

METHODSIsolated endometrial epithelial cells, stromal cells and RL95-2 cells were seeded into culture chambers coated with the extracellular matrix Matrigel and observed using light microscopy. Fluorescence staining and immunohistochemistry were used to assess the morphology.

RESULTSDepending on the culture conditions, epithelial cells and RL95-2 cells formed multicellular structures on Matrigel; stromal cells remained individually distinguishable or grew together to form 3-D lattice-like structures.

CONCLUSIONSMatrigel provided a good microenvironment for culturing endometrial cells. The cells cultured in the Matrigel-coated chambers closely resembled those seen in vivo.