A method for fabricating collagen membranes with microporous structure: applications in tissue engineering

The goal of this project was to create membranes with a microporous architecture capable of supporting layers of cultured cells while preserving the molecular structure and mechanical integrity of the collagen. In this study, we investigated several methods for fabricating porous membranes and showed that porous collagen membranes could be formed using a combination of fibril formation, controlled drying, and freeze-drying. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analyses of these collagen membranes indicate that a microporous architecture was created by modulating the processing of the membrane. Ultimately, the ability to regulate porosity will lead to improved control in the overall performance of a tissue engineered construct.