Effects of modified collagen matrices on human umbilical vein endothelial cells

The most commonly used biomaterials fail to ensure sufficient angiogenesis for fast in vivo incorporation. This results in central necrosis and consequent infection. One way of obtaining a high angiogenic response is the application of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). To obtain a sustained release of these cytokines, heparin was incorporated into collagen matrices using 1-ethyl-3(3-dimethyl-aminopropyl) carbodiimide (EDC) and N-hydroxysuccinmide (NHS). The functionality of the heparinized collagen matrices was then enhanced by immobilization of VEGF via its heparin-binding domain. This procedure changed in vitro degradation behavior and water-binding capacity. Accelerated endothelial cell proliferation was also achieved. A range of different heparin and EDC/NHS concentrations in combination with VEGF induced variation in endothelial cell growth and tubulogenic formation. Polymerized collagen scaffolds presented biointeractive systems with integrated angiogenic activity. This may become a useful tool in the clinical therapy of disorders connected with wound healing.