Fig. 1.

Matrix density and cross-linking alter collagen gel mechanical properties and the angiogenic sprouting response from multicellular spheroids. (A) Equilibrium compressive moduli of 1-, 5-, and 10-mg/mL collagen gel following cross-linking with 0, 50, or 100 mM ribose. (B and C) Quantification of migration speed (B) and persistence (C) for ECs embedded within 1.5-mg/mL collagen gels glycated with 0, 50, or 100 mM ribose. (D and E) The projected spheroid area (D) and the number of extensions (E) were measured over the course of 5 d. Data are presented as mean ± SEM; *P < 0.05.