Melanoma cell-derived factors stimulate glycosaminoglycan synthesis by fibroblasts cultured as monolayers and within contracted collagen lattices

Abstract

Melanoma cells produce factors that are potent stimulators of fibroblast glycosaminoglycan synthesis, in both monolayer culture and within contracted collagen lattices. Synthesis of both hyaluronan and sulphated glycosaminoglycans with a reduced degree of polymer sulphation is stimulated. Such changes are likely to promote tumour cell proliferation and migration.