cellsattached

Cellsattached is a term used to describe the state of cells that have adhered to a solid substrate during in vitro culture, as opposed to cells growing in suspension. In many mammalian cell systems, cells are categorized as adherent or suspension based on their growth requirements; adherent cells require attachment to a surface to proliferate and form monolayers or colonies.

Attachment is mediated by cell-surface adhesion molecules, particularly integrins, which connect the extracellular matrix to the intracellular cytoskeleton via focal adhesions. The extracellular matrix components most commonly promoting attachment include fibronectin, collagen, and laminin. Culture vessels are often treated or coated with these matrix proteins or with synthetic substrates such as poly-D-lysine to enhance cell attachment.

The process of achieving and maintaining a cellsattached state is important for cell survival, morphology, differentiation, and signaling. Surface properties, ECM composition, and serum conditions can influence attachment efficiency and subsequent cell behavior. Detachment, when needed for passaging or experimentation, is typically accomplished by enzymatic methods (such as proteases) or mechanical means, after which cells may reattach on a suitable substrate.

In practice, the term cellsattached may appear in laboratory notes, data pipelines, or experimental protocols to indicate that cells have successfully adhered and are ready for subsequent steps. Not all cell types readily attach; some require specific coatings, media formulations, or conditioning to promote stable adhesion.

See also: adherent cell culture, cell adhesion, integrins, extracellular matrix.