Collagenic membranes modified with natural compound for improved bio-integration: structural, morphological and histological analysis

Collagen membranes have been widely investigated in animal studies and human clinical studies, and have demonstrated excellent biocompatibility, biodegradability and cell affinity. Membrane porosity and 3D architecture are considered to be crucial for cellular infiltration and proliferation, in the process of wound heling. In this context, the aim of our study was the prepare and to investigate comparatively the structural and morphological properties of collagenic membranes modified with a natural bio-compound (respectively azelaic acid) and to evaluate their bio-integration and immune response in the framework of an animal model. Our results shown a porous structure with a honeycomb-style architecture achieved as a result of azelaic acid incorporation in collagenic membrane, with a beneficial effect on tissue remodelling and rapid healing. The bio-integration of azelaic acid-collagenic membrane was faster compared to pure collagenic one, with only minor inflammatory events.