Hybridized dense nano-fibrillar collagen gels as tissue models and scaffolds

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The focus of this Discovery Program Grant is the engineering, and characterisation of the structure-property relationship of dense, tissue-like collagenous matrices developed as in vitro models, and as scaffolds for the regeneration of hard and soft tissues. Plastic compression rapidly generates biomimetic, dense collagen scaffolds by removing fluid from in vitro reconstituted, highly-hydrated nano-fibrillar collagen gels. Within minutes, three dimensional matrices are generated having collagen fibrillar densities similar to those of native extracellular matrix. Moreover, when this is applied to cellular scaffolds, cell viability is maintained and the constructs provide a supportive environment for long term cultures to investigate the effects of biochemical and biomechanical cues on tissue maturation. The method is also ideal for generating hybridized scaffolds through the incorporation of other biopolymers or bioinorganics.