Characterization of scaffolds based on chitosan and collagen with glycosaminoglycans and sodium alginate addition

Scaffolds based on chitosan (CTS), collagen (Coll), and glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) cross-linked by sodium alginate (SA) were obtained with the use of the freeze-drying method. They were characterized by different analyses, e.g. infrared spectroscopy, SEM images and differential scanning calorimetry. Furthermore, bio-mechanical properties of the scaffolds were determined in a biomimetic bioreactor. The results showed that the scaffolds based on chitosan, collagen, and glycosaminoglycans cross-linked by sodium alginate are stable in aqueous environment. The infrared spectroscopy analysis showed the hydrogen bond formation between polymers. Scaffolds presented open-pores structures even after a 3-day long analysis in a perfusion bioreactor. The obtained results indicate that the addition of sodium alginate slightly modified biomechanical properties.