Fibroblasts are mesenchymal cells derived from the embryonic mesoderm. They have been extensively used for a wide range of cellular and molecular studies as they are one of easiest types of cells to grow in culture. Their durability also makes them amenable to a variety of manipulations ranging from studies employing gene transfection to microinjection. In general, fibroblasts secrete a non-rigid extracellular matrix which is rich in type I and/or type III collagen [1]. There is evidence showing that fibroblasts in different organs are intrinsically different [2]. Dermal fibroblasts switch from a proliferative, migratory phase to a contractile, matrix-remodeling phase during wound healing. In addition, they secrete large quantities of hyaluronan in response to inflammatory stimuli [3].

RDF from ScienCell Research Laboratories are isolated from neonatal CD® IGS rat skin. RDF are cryopreserved at P0 and delivered frozen. Each vial contains >5 x 10^5 cells in 1 ml volume. RDF are characterized by their spindle morphology and immunofluorescence with antibody specific to fibronectin. RDF are negative for mycoplasma, bacteria, yeast, and fungi. RDF are guaranteed to further expand for 5 population doublings under the conditions provided by ScienCell Research Laboratories.

Recommended Medium

It is recommended to use Fibroblast Medium (FM, Cat. #2301) for culturing RDF in vitro.