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Spheroids, Cellular

Definition: Spherical, heterogeneous aggregates of proliferating, quiescent, and necrotic cells in culture that retain three-dimensional architecture and tissue-specific functions. The ability to form spheroids is a characteristic trait of CULTURED TUMOR CELLS derived from solid TUMORS. Cells from normal tissues can also form spheroids. They represent an in-vitro model for studies of the biology of both normal and malignant cells. (From Bjerkvig, Spheroid Culture in Cancer Research, 1992, p4)
Notes: do not confuse with "spheroid bodies" referring to axons in neuropathol; if tumor spheroids coordinate with TUMOR CELLS, CULTURED
Previously Indexed: Cells, Cultured (1972-1995),Tissue Culture (1966-1971),Tumor Cells, Cultured (1988-1995)

Spheroids, Cellular Definitions and Terms

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