Fabrication of Three-Dimensional Scaffolds Based on Nano-biomimetic Collagen Hybrid Constructs for Skin Tissue Engineering

Three-dimensional (3D) biodegradable and biomimetic porous scaffolds are ideal frameworks for skin tissue engineering. In this study, hybrid constructs of 3D scaffolds were successfully fabricated by the freeze-drying method from combinations of the type I collagen (Col) and synthetic poly(lactic acid) (PLLA) or polycaprolactone (PCL). Four different groups of 3D porous scaffolds including PCL, PCL-Col, PCL-PLLA, and PCL-PLLA-Col were fabricated and systematically characterized by hydrogen nuclear magnetic resonance, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Adipose tissue-derived mesenchymal stem cells (AT-MSCs) were seeded in all scaffolds, and the viability, proliferation, and adhesion of the cells were investigated using dimethylthiazol diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay and SEM. The results showed that scaffolds containing Col, particularly PCL-PLLA-Col scaffold, with pore sizes close to 400 nm and being sufficiently interconnected, have significantly greater potential (p < 0.01) for encouraging AT-MSCs adhesion and growth. The PCL-PLLA provided a mechanically stronger mesh support, and the type I Col microsponges encouraged excellent cell adhesion and tissue formation. The scaffold with the best properties could be an appropriate functional candidate for the preparation of artificial skin constructs.