Novel crosslinked recombinant human collagen scaffolds with excellent cytocompatibility and wound healing effect

Objective: This study aimed to investigate the physicochemical properties, cytocompatibility, and tissue repair effects of novel crosslinked recombinant human collagen (rCOL) scaffolds. Methods: Novel rCOL scaffolds were prepared using EDC/NHS crosslinking and lyophilization. The physicochemical properties of the scaffolds, including the porosity, pore size, crosslinking degree, tensile strength, endotoxin levels, and genotoxicity, were determined. Their cytocompatibility was investigated in vitro, and their tissue repair effects were evaluated in a full-thickness skin wound rat model. Results: The crosslinked rCOL scaffolds exhibited a three-dimensional structure with a porosity exceeding 90% and a pore size ranging from 50 to 400 μm. The crosslinking degree of scaffolds prepared from 4% and 8% rCOL exceeded 20%, and all scaffolds withstood a tensile load of 2.5 N. Endotoxin levels were <0.5 EU per mL, below the regulatory limit for implantable medical products. No genotoxicity was detected. In vitro, the scaffolds exhibited remarkable cell adhesion and proliferation capabilities, with the 4% rCOL scaffold showing the highest capacity. In a full-thickness skin wound rat model, the scaffolds showed superior efficacy in promoting wound healing compared to animal-derived collagen. Conclusions: The biocompatibility and tissue repair of crosslinked rCOL scaffolds have excellent biological performance, providing a new material for wound healing applications.