Glycated Cross-Linked Collagen Membranes with Tunable Permeability and Multifunctional Properties for Tissue Regeneration

Interface tissue engineering focuses on developing bioengineered constructs that integrate with the body's natural tissues. Collagen-based membranes, due to their inherent bioactivity and compatibility, are widely used in tissue engineering applications such as wound healing, guided tissue regeneration, and guided bone regeneration. This study investigates the in vitro development and characterization of methylglyoxal (MGO)-cross-linked collagen membranes, which exhibit enhanced mechanical strength, thermal stability, hydrophilicity, and tunable permeability. To evaluate the properties of these membranes, we employed several techniques, including scanning electron microscopy for morphological analysis, differential scanning calorimetry for thermal stability assessment, tensile strength tests for mechanical evaluation, water contact angle measurements for wettability, dielectric analysis for moisture absorption, and permeability assays using fluorescein diffusion. Additionally, the fibroblast barrier function was assessed using a red cell tracking dye with confocal microscopy. The ability to fine-tune the properties of collagen membranes through MGO cross-linking opens new possibilities for their use in tissue engineering. These membranes can serve as effective barriers in guided tissue regeneration and guided bone regeneration, promoting tissue regeneration and healing by preventing undesired cell migration and creating a conducive environment for bone and tissue growth. MGO-cross-linked collagen membranes offer a promising solution for enhancing the functionality and efficacy of bioengineered constructs in tissue engineering. Their improved mechanical and thermal properties, coupled with their biocompatibility, make them ideal candidates for various clinical applications.