Preparation and Characterization of Collagen–Hyaluronic Acid (Col–HA) Matrices: In Vitro Mimics of the Tumor Microenvironment

Collagen-I (Col) and hyaluronic acid (HA) are two of the most important extracellular matrix (ECM) components. While collagen serves as the main structural feature of the ECM and is an important ligand for integrin-based adhesions, HA acts as a ligand for the transmembrane glycoprotein CD44. However, most studies on cancer invasion utilize 3D collagen matrices, thereby ignoring the importance of HA–CD44 interactions. Here, we describe the process of fabricating Col–HA gels with varying Col/HA ratios, which can be used to suitably mimic the tumor microenvironment.