Development of a novel extracellular matrix membrane with an asymmetric structure for guided bone regeneration

Abstract A novel asymmetric membrane based on small intestinal submucosa (SIS) was fabricated. The microstructure, physicochemical properties, cytological characterization and effects on bone defect repair in vivo were investigated. Compared with a traditional SIS-based dense membrane, the asymmetric membrane had a bilayer structure with dense and loose layers, and better mechanical properties and wettability. The loose layer was favorable for the three-dimensional proliferation of human bone mesenchymal stem cells, and thus led to better osteogenic effects in vivo. Given its extensive material sources and simple preparation process, the asymmetric SIS membrane is expected to be a promising candidate for guided bone regeneration.