Extracellular Matrix Proteins Influence Cell Morphology and Function in Rat Neural Cultures

The interaction between extracellular matrix (ECM) and neural cells is important in cell differentiation and morphogenesis of the nervous system. However, conditions for culture of neuronal cells have not been optimized for ECM, and poly-lysine often prevails as the substrate of choice. Quantitative Ca++ fluorimetry was used to screen ECM proteins singly and in combination to determine culture conditions resulting in optimal morphology and function of rat cortical cells.