Abstract

Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body and one of the main components of stromal tissues in tumors which have a high elastic modulus of over 50kPa. Although collagen has been widely used as a cell culture scaffold for cancer cells, there have been limitations when attempting to fabricate a tough collagen gel with cells like a cancer stroma. Here, rapid gelation of a collagen solution within a few minutes by transition metal complexation is demonstrated. Type I collagen solution at neutral pH shows rapid gelation with a transparency of 81% and a high modulus of 1,781kPa by mixing with K2 PtCl4 solution within 3min. Other transition metal ions also show the same rapid gelation, but not basic metal ions. Interestingly, although type I to IV collagen molecules show rapid gelation, other extracellular matrices do not exhibit this phenomenon. Live imaging of colon cancer organoids in 3D culture indicates a collective migration property with modulating high elastic modulus, suggesting activation for metastasis progress. This technology will be useful as a new class of 3D culture for cells and organoids due to its facility for deep-live observation and mechanical stiffness adjustment.

Full Text
Published version (Free)

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call