Evaluation of the immunogenicity and cell compatibility of avian collagen for biomedical applications

There have been concerns regarding the suitability of bovine collagen as a biomaterial since the emergence of bovine spongiform encephalopathy. Consequently, collagens from other species may be used if they can meet appropriate standards, including negligible or lack of immunogenicity. In this study, the potential immunogenicity of both monomeric and pepsin-solubilized chicken collagens have been compared with a commercial, pepsin-solubilized bovine collagen that is approved for biomedical implantation. All collagens were poor immunogens compared with ovalbumin. No IgE responses were detected in sera of three strains of mice, and no hypersensitivity reactions were found in guinea pigs in maximization and Buehler tests. IgG(1) antibodies were found although the titre was substantially lower than against ovalbumin. All responses in mice and rabbits were found only when immunizations were performed with adjuvant, and after multiple injections over a long period of time. The response from the monomeric chicken collagen was less than for pepsin-solubilized collagens. Collagen sponges prepared from the two chicken collagen preparations both supported the attachment and growth of mouse fibroblasts. These data indicate that chicken collagen, particularly when monomeric, may be useful in certain biomedical applications.