Tissue integration of collagen-based matrices: an experimental study in mice
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Updated: May 27, 2026
Fabrication of Micro-tissues using Modules of Collagen Gel Containing Cells
Published on: December 13, 2010
Daniel S Thoma1, Cristina C Villar, David L Cochran
1Clinic of Fixed and Removable Prosthodontics and Dental Material Science, Center of Dental Medicine, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
Objectives:
To test whether or not tissue integration, biodegradation, and new blood vessel formation in two collagen-based matrices depend on the level of chemical cross-linking.
Material And Methods:
Two collagen matrices with high (CM1) and low (CM2) levels of chemical cross-linking were randomly implanted in two pouches in 14 athymic nude mice. Three and 6 weeks later, the animals were euthanized. Histologic and histomorphometric measurements were performed on paraffin-embedded sections.
Results:
Both collagen matrices integrated well into the surrounding soft tissues. The level of cross-linking and duration of implantation had an effect on the formation of new blood vessels. More blood vessels (n = in absolute numbers) were found in outer compartments compared to the central compartments of the matrices, reaching 5.6 (CM2) vs. 4.3 (CM1) at 3 weeks, and 5.3 (CM2) vs. 7.3 (CM1) at 6 weeks. Similarly, connective tissue formation increased for both matrices between 3 and 6 weeks, whereas the amount of remaining collagen network gradually decreased over time being more pronounced for CM1 (-50%) compared to CM2 (-15%).
Conclusions:
The degree of cross-linking was negatively correlated for all outcome measures resulting in improved tissue integration, superior matrix stability and enhanced angiogenic patterns for the less cross-linked collagen matrix (CM2) in this experimental study in mice.
