Collagen, the most abundant protein in the human body, plays an important role in maintaining the structural integrity of various tissues. Collagen-based biomaterials have been discovered in a range of fields, including tissue engineering, which has not been explored previously. Different types of collagen offer a versatile platform for the production of biomaterials that closely mimic the natural features of many tissues.
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Collagen Types
Different types of collagen exist, each with its own properties and functions. The most common types in humans are types I, II, and III. High tensile strength is characteristic of Type I collagen, which is found in skin as well as tendons and bones. Type II collagen is a crucial component of cartilage, serving as elasticity and reinforcement. Along with his type I collagen, Type III also plays a crucial role in maintaining the structure of the skin and blood vessels, as well as the function of internal organs.
Table 1 Different collagen types are organized in various suprastructures (Meyer M, 2019)
| Supra structure |
Collagen types |
| Fibril |
I, II, III, V, XI, XXIV, XXVII |
| Fibril associated (FACIT) |
IX, XII, XIV, XVI, XIX, XX, XXI, XXII |
| Network |
IV, VI, VIII, X |
| Anchoring fibrils |
VII |
| Transmembrane collagens |
XIII, XVII, XXIII, XXV |
| Multiplexin |
XV, XVIII |
Collagen-Based Biomaterials
The unique properties of collagen make it an ideal candidate for biomaterials used in tissue engineering. Collagen-based scaffolds, hydrogels, and matrices provide a biocompatible environment that mimics the extracellular matrix (ECM), facilitating cell adhesion, proliferation, and tissue regeneration. Researchers have developed innovative methods to extract and process collagen, creating biomaterials with tunable mechanical and biochemical properties.
In recent years, the focus has expanded beyond conventional tissue engineering to incorporate antimicrobial properties into collagen-based biomaterials. This advancement addresses a critical challenge in tissue engineering - the prevention of infections in implanted constructs.
Collagen Antimicrobial Biomaterials
The risk of infection is a major concern for tissue engineered implants. Collagen-based biomaterials, when engineered with antimicrobial properties, present a promising solution to this problem. Various strategies have been employed to impart antimicrobial characteristics to collagen biomaterials, ranging from the incorporation of antimicrobial agents to the modification of collagen structures.
One possibility is to introduce antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) into collagen matrices. AMPs are naturally occurring molecules that exhibit a broad spectrum of antimicrobial activity. n combination with collagen, these peptides create a biomaterial with intrinsic resistance to bacterial colonization, reducing the risk of infection in implanted tissues.
The researchers also investigated the potential of silver nanoparticles, a recognized antimicrobial agent, in combination with collagen-based biomaterials. Silver nanoparticles exhibit potent antibacterial properties and can be incorporated into collagen scaffolds to create materials that actively combat bacterial growth, enhancing the overall biocompatibility of the implant.
Applications in Tissue Engineering
Integration of antimicrobial properties into collagen-based biomaterials holds promise for various applications in tissue engineering. One area of focus is the development of antimicrobial wound dressings. Collagen scaffolds, equipped with antimicrobial agents, can promote wound healing while simultaneously preventing infections, making them invaluable in the treatment of chronic wounds and burns.
Fig 1 Approaches to developing collagen-based antimicrobial biomaterials for tissue engineering applications. (Ersanli C, et al. 2023)
In orthopedic applications, collagen-based biomaterials with antimicrobial properties play a crucial role in bone regeneration. By reducing the risk of bacterial contamination in bone implants, these biomaterials enhance the overall success rate of orthopedic procedures, providing a safer and more effective solution for patients.
Moreover, in cardiovascular tissue engineering, collagen matrices modified to resist bacterial colonization contribute to the development of durable vascular grafts and heart valves. The antimicrobial properties not only protect the implanted constructs but also improve their long-term functionality.
References
- Meyer M. Processing of collagen based biomaterials and the resulting materials properties. Biomed Eng Online. 2019, 18(1):24.
- Ersanli C, Tzora A, Skoufos I, Voidarou CC, Zeugolis DI. Recent Advances in Collagen Antimicrobial Biomaterials for Tissue Engineering Applications: A Review. Int J Mol Sci. 2023, 24(9):7808.
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