Selective growth of epithelial basal cells from human prostate in a three-dimensional organ culture.

Background: A three-dimensional organotypic culture method has been developed for selectively growing epithelial basal cells from human benign prostate.

Methods: Tissue fragments were cultured on sponges for several weeks and the viability of luminal and basal epithelium and cellular responses to 4,5alpha-dihydrotesterone (DHT) stimulation were studied.

Results: The gland tissue could be successfully maintained showing preservation of ducts and lobules as in vivo.