Collagen-Laponite Nanoclay Hydrogels for Tumor Spheroid Growth
Year: 2023
Type: article
Abstract: The extracellular matrix (ECM) plays an important regulatory role in the development and progression of tumoral tissue. Its functions and properties are crucial in determining tumor cell behavior such as invasion, migration, and malignancy development. Our study explores the role of collagen type I in cancer development and spread using engineered tumor models like multicellular spheroids grown in collagen-based hydrogels to simulate early tumor formation. We employ microfluidic techniques to test the hypothesis that (i) adding Laponite nanoclay to collagen hydrogels modifies mechanical and rheological properties and (ii) changing the stiffness of the collagen microenvironment affects tumor spheroid growth. Our findings support our theories and suggest the use of ECM components and engineered tumor models in cancer research, offering a biocompatible and biomimetic method to tailor the mechanical properties of conventional collagen hydrogels.
Source: Biomacromolecules
Institutions: Universidad de Zaragoza, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Aragón, Instituto de Investigación en Ingeniería de Aragón, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, Instituto de Nanociencia y Materiales de Aragón, Instituto de Síntesis Química y Catálisis Homogénea, University College London
Language: English
Subfield: Cell Biology
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $5,000
OpenAlex ID: W4378746643