Disclosed herein is a cross-linked polymeric system comprising thiolated hyaluronic acid (HA), thiolated chondroitin sulfate (CS), and functionalized polyethylene glycol (PEG), wherein said functionalized PEG cross-links thiolated HA and thiolated CS. Methods of fabrication and utilization of the same are also claimed. This polymeric system may be used as an engineered biocompatible cellular matrix for 3D cell culture, tissue engineering and regenerative medicine applications.
