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Structure-functionality relationship of collagen-fibrin interpenetrating hydrogels for engineered tumor-stroma
Sae Rome Choi1, Seamus M Mellican2, Tyler J Roberts3
1Department of Mechanical Science and Engineering, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA; Cancer Center at Illinois, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA.
Acta Biomaterialia
|March 13, 2026
Summary
This study investigates collagen-fibrin hydrogels for engineered tumor models. Varying protein ratios and polymerization sequence alters microstructure and biomechanics, crucial for recreating tumor microenvironments.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Extracellular Matrix Biology
- Cancer Research
Background:
- Collagen and fibrin are key extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins in tumorigenesis, influencing cancer progression, cell behavior, and drug resistance.
- Engineered tumor models, including 3D printed tissues and microphysiological systems (MPS), are emerging but often overlook the complex interplay of collagen and fibrin.
- A knowledge gap exists in understanding the structure-function relationship of collagen-fibrin hydrogels for accurately reconstructing the tumor-stroma microenvironment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize the microstructure and biomechanical properties of collagen-fibrin interpenetrating hydrogels.
- To investigate the impact of varying protein ratios and polymerization sequences on hydrogel properties.
- To address the limitations in current engineered tumor models regarding ECM reconstitution.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication of collagen-fibrin interpenetrating hydrogels with varied protein compositions and polymerization sequences.
- Characterization of hydrogel microstructure using techniques like confocal microscopy.
- Assessment of biomechanical properties, including diffusivity, Young's modulus, and cell-derived contraction.
Main Results:
- Hydrogel pore size decreased with increasing fibrin content, correlating with reduced diffusivity.
- Young's modulus showed complex behavior, increasing at low fibrin content but decreasing at higher concentrations.
- Polymerization sequence significantly altered the collagen-fibrin microstructure, impacting matrix properties.
Conclusions:
- Collagen and fibrin concentrations, along with polymerization sequence, critically influence the microstructure and biomechanical properties of interpenetrating hydrogels.
- These findings provide a quantitative basis for designing and analyzing biomaterials for advanced engineered tumor models.
- Understanding these structure-function relationships is vital for improving the fidelity of tumor microenvironment models.
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