Journal List > Ann Dermatol > v.9(4) > 1046929

Yoo, Eun, and Lee: Culture of Nail Matrix Cells

Abstract

Background

In vitro epidermal keratinocytes(EKs) culture systems are widely used in studying skin biology and differentiation. Recently a monolayer culture method of nail matrix cells(NMCs) has been developed.

Objective

This study was designed to establish a method of culture of NMCs and compared its characteristics with those of EKs.

Methods

Human NMCs were isolated and cultured in a defined medium. Phase contrast microscopic examination, growth rate and ketatin expression were evaluated.

Results

In in vitro monolayer culture, NMCs had a similar growth pattern and morphological features as EKs. The synthesis of hard keratins was detected.

Conclusion

These observations suggest that the NMCs culture model may be useful for the study of nail properties and the effects of drugs.

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