MULTICELLULAR IN VITRO MODEL OF ANGIOGENESIS AND METHODS FOR USING THE SAME

摘要

The invention relates to a multicellular in vitro composition comprising (A) at least one spheroid of endothelial cells and smooth muscle cells, (B) a fibrin matrix or precursors for a fibrin matrix, and (C) a serum-free growth medium. The composition is capable of expressing angiogenic growth characteristics, for example, endothelial cell lumenization and branching. The invention also relates to methods of using the composition as an in vitro model of angiogenesis, to assay and screen for compounds that modulate angiogenesis, and to study and research angiogenesis. The invention further relates to kits comprising the composition, and methods for making the composition.