Current knowledge on the multiform reconstitution of intestinal stem cell niche

Figure 2 Comparison of Matrigel, decellularized extracellular matrix and a synthetic matrix. A: Ill-defined Matrigel is variable in composition. Although certain bioactive factors exist, Matrigel still contains undefined contamination from the tumor microenvironment, which leads to low reproducibility and biosecurity; B: Submucosa-derived decellularized extracellular matrix (dECM) provides intestinal stem cells (ISCs) with a natural microenvironment closest to native tissue and the crypt niche. Tissue-specific bioactive substances could help maintain the physical phenotype of cultured ISCs. However, the composition of dECM may vary from batch to batch and be affected by the age, gender and health status of source animals; C: Polyethylene glycol is one of the most frequently used synthetic material for cell culture as it is bioinert and tunable. Following modification with diverse functional groups or active ligands, researchers can manipulate the physical and chemical parameters to further support organoid formation. PEG: Polyethylene glycol.