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.