Mimicking Gastric Cancer Collagen Reorganization with Decellularized ECM-Based Scaffolds

Abstract

The collagen reorganization in the TME strongly impacts gastric cancer progression. Collagen, the most abundant ECM protein, produces a robust physical barrier that regulates TME anti-tumor immunity and cancer cell migration, proliferation, and metabolic signaling. Enzyme and collagen remodeling increase stiffness and mechanical properties. Tumor cells become more invasive and immunoresistant. As a result of its dynamic nature, ECM stiffening requires special treatment methods that target collagen creation and degradation. This review describes the changes in collagen expression and deposition, biological activities, assembly, and rearrangement which contribute to this aggressive malignancy. Additionally, 3D in vitro models with novel biomaterials are needed to effectively recreate real-world circumstances and the collagen microenvironment. Decellularized ECM-derived scaffolds could recreate stomach cancer growth as tumor models.