Preparation and Characterization of an Extracellular Matrix of Artificial Tendon Tissue from Natural Macromolecules

Abstract:

Collagen and chitosan are well natrual polymers to be used as extracellular matrix on tissue engineering because of their biocompatibility, certain mechanical strength and biodegradability. But there are some disadvantages when they are used to construct extracellular matrix respectively. This experiment utilized their complementary performances to prepare a composite extracellular matrix of artificial tendon tissue that had adequacy mechanics strength and good biocompatibility, cell affinity, biodegradability. Collagen and chitosan were covalently crosslinked using EDC and NHS to obtain a porous scaffold material that the porous was oriented under an external force. Then RGD peptide was covalently attached to scaffold material surface to improve its affinity with cells. The microstructure of scaffold material was observed under microscope and scanning electron microscope. Simultaneously, the physical performance, hydrophilicity, ecto-degradation rate and cell compatibility of scaffold material were measured in the experiments. The results showed that this scaffold material was soft and stretchy. Its tensile strength was 15.0 MPa, corresponding shape extension was 7.33%, and its porosity was 79.4%. Its water absorption rate and water retention rate were 772% and 206% respectively. Its degradation rate in RPM1640 culture mediun with 10% fetal bovine serum and in human serum were 4.13% and 37.2% respectively after three weeks. These degradation rates are suitable for the rehab course of injured tendon. Moreover the degradation rates can be controlled by adjusting technological conditions and degree of cross linking. Significantly higher affinity with 3T3-L1 cell was detected on the scaffold material modified by RGD peptide. The various physical performances of this complex scaffold material are appropriate for constructing extracellular matrix of artificial tendon tissue or artificial skin. Moreover, it could be used as soft tissue slurry for plastic surgery.