Adhesion and Proliferation of Human Dermal Fibroblasts on Collagen Matrix

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to evaluate adhesion and growth of human dermal fibroblasts on a 0.150 mm-thick matrix of reconstituted collagen isolated from horse tendon. Collagen was extracted and polymerized according to the standard procedures (Opocrin, Corlo, Modena, Italy). By light microscopy, the bottom surface of the matrix appeared linear and compact, whereas the superficial one was indented and less homogeneous. By scanning electron microscopy, the collagen fibrils had different diameters and the great majority of them was oriented parallel to the surface of the gel. By transmission electron microscopy, collagen fibrils showed the typical banding. Human dermal fibroblasts were seeded on the collagen matrix, previously equilibrated in growth medium. Fibroblast proliferation stopped in the second week and was always significantly lower than that of the same cell strain seeded on plastic and cultured in parallel. By light microscopy, after six days culture, cells formed a confluent multilayer on the surface of the gel. By scanning and transmission electron microscopy, fibroblasts appeared flat and adherent to the matrix. Contacts of cells among themselves and with the collagen fibrils were observed. Fibroblasts never moved into the collagen gel. In conclusion, human dermal fibroblasts can be grown in a three-dimensional matrix made by horse tendon that, on the other hand, seems to condition their proliferation rate.

Fibroblasts Protect Melanoma Cells from the Cytotoxic Effects of Doxorubicin

“…Furthermore, it is well known that fibroblasts cultured in three-dimensional collagen gels have lower proliferation rates than in monolayer cultures. 29,30 The present study shows that Dox cytotoxicity was higher in monolayers, reaching 75% of cell death, compared with culture on collagen where 67% cell death was observed. When the same cell lines were grown under biomimetic environmental conditions, we observed significantly lower (17%) cell death rate among the combined cell populations (melanoma cells and fibroblasts).…”

A Morphological and Biochemical Analysis Comparative Study of the Collagen Products Biopad, Promogram, Puracol, and Colactive

“…In particular, it is essential to establish whether they can actually take contact with the 3-dimensional collagen matrix and whether they can move and proliferate freely under these conditions. 5,6 In contrast, leukocytes and lymphocytes have been shown to associate in vitro with collagen and its fragments as a crucial step in the initiation of the thrombus formation. 7 At the same time, lymphocytes are known to modulate the production of several growth factors so as to stimulate some immune reactions that may eventually lead to collagen degradation.…”

Cell proliferation on three-dimensional chitosan–agarose–gelatin cryogel scaffolds for tissue engineering applications

“…Adult skin consist of two tissue layers: a keratinized, stratified epidermis and underlying thick dermal connective tissue which is rich in collagen and provides support and nourishment to the cells (2). Skin being a vital organ, any defect or injury to it is irreconcilable with sustained life (3). Further complications are caused due to deep open wounds or third degree burn sites which are prone to bacterial infections which can be dangerous to the patient.…”