Collagen-Based Scaffolds for Meniscal Repair and Regeneration

Meniscal injuries present a significant clinical challenge due to the limited self-healing capacity of avascular regions and the unsatisfactory long-term outcomes of current repair strategies. Collagen, the primary structural component of the meniscal extracellular matrix (ECM), plays a crucial role in maintaining its biomechanical integrity and guiding tissue regeneration. This review summarizes recent advances in collagen scaffolds technology, focusing on materials, collagen extraction, and scaffold fabrication methods, as well as their in vivo interactions with cells that regulate tissue regeneration. The mechanical enhancement of collagen scaffolds through crosslinking and reinforcement with synthetic polymers is discussed, alongside strategies for controlled degradation and biological integration. Despite remaining challenges in mechanical durability and long-term stability, these developments position collagen-based scaffolds as a promising avenue toward clinically viable meniscal repair solutions.