"Soft agar" refers to a special gel-like substance commonly used in scientific experiments. It helps scientists grow and study cells outside the body in a controlled environment. Full definition
By using molecular genetic tools to reduce the amount of PC in human lung cancer cells, the team observed decreased cell growth, a compromised ability to form colonies in soft agar (a gelatinous material specifically used to grow bacteria and other cells), and a reduced rate of tumor growth in mice. (sciencedaily.com)
This resulted in a reduced 7SK snRNA level and caused a significant increase in cell proliferation and anchorage - independent growth in soft agar (Figure 3B — D, Figure 3 — figure supplement 1B — D). (elifesciences.org)
(E) Rat1 - DD cells expressing kinase - inactive alleles of MELK (D150A or T167A), fail to grow as colonies in soft agar. (elifesciences.org)