If you are not familiar with 3D culture yet, please note that cells cultured in 3D may proliferate slower than in 2D because cells require to overcome the physical barrier posed by the matrix (as they would do in a vivo situation). In order to create enough space for proliferation and migration in 3D, cells normally have to remodel the matrix mechanically or by proteolytic degradation, or a combination of both. These aspects of matrix remodeling required in 3D are completely missing in 2D.

The use of cell proteolytic machinery is a process commonly used by the cells in vivo. In QGel matrices in order to create space for 3D proliferate and migration, cells need to degrade and remodel the matrix by proteolytic degradation (i.e. they have to secrete and activate proteases, e.g. MMPs), because the hydrogel has pore sizes smaller than cells. This proteolytic remodeling process, needed to overcome the barrier posed by the matrix, might require more time in comparison to cell growth/migration/proliferation across matrices with pores with sizes in a similar range as the cells and/or in matrices cells can also mechanically remodel (e.g. collagen matrices or Matrigel). For further details, please read the FAQ about spreading/proliferation/migration and MMP-matrix-remodeling mechanisms in QGel matrices.

Please also note that different cell types will behave differently. The FAQ What to do in my first experiment with QGel matrix? will give you good advice about how to start using QGel MT 3D Matrix with your specific cell type.

Finally, you can find detailed information about the differences between each QGel MT 3D Matrix products in the FAQ How do I choose the QGel MT 3D matrix product for my experiments?.