Porous cellulose-collagen scaffolds for soft tissue regeneration: influence of cellulose derivatives on mechanical properties and compatibility with adipose-derived stem cells

This study compares two types of bioresorptive cellulose, i.e., calcium-sodium salt of oxidized cellulose (OC) and sodium salt of carboxymethylcellulose (CMC). It investigates which type would be preferable as an implant material in terms of biocompatibility, biomechanical and biological properties, and also in terms of its behavior in combination with collagen fibrils (Col) in composite Col/OC or Col/CMC scaffolds. OC significantly supported the stiffness and elasticity of Col fibrils, whereas CMC significantly reduced these properties. OC also enabled a strong interaction with Col fibrils even in a moist environment, accompanied by a significant drop in elastic modulus. The addition of cellulose did not significantly influence scaffold porosity; however, changes in surface morphology and the lower swelling capacity of OC, with a degree of oxidation of its chains between 16 and 24%, supported the idea of improved cell-material interaction. The elasticity and the stiffness of Col/OC guided human adipose-derived stem cells (hADSCs) to significantly higher adhesion, proliferation, and metabolic activity. On the contrary, the Col/CMC provided only limited mechanical support for the cells and inhibited their attachment and proliferation, although without any signs of cytotoxicity. This phenomenon could be used for future control of the differentiation of hADSCs towards a desired phenotype to generate advanced tissue replacements using modern methods of tissue engineering. The oxidation of cellulose resulted in a firmer scaffolding material, as required in vascular or skin tissue engineering. CMC is suitable for moist wound healing, e.g. as a mucoadhesive gel, where cell adhesion is not desirable. Graphical abstract