What calcium concentration is needed to induce differentiation in cultured keratinocytes?
The optimal calcium concentration for keratinocyte proliferation or differentiation depends on the species and the specific medium formulation used. To maintain primary human keratinocytes in a proliferative state, low calcium concentrations are generally required, typically in the range of 0.03–0.15 mM. For example, PromoCell Keratinocyte Growth Medium 2 contains 0.06 mM calcium, which supports proliferation. Increasing the calcium concentration to above 1 mM induces terminal differentiation of keratinocytes and leads to a loss of proliferative capacity.