Abstract: Soluble, self-assembling collagens derived from tissues are extensively characterized such that one can predict and customize the final collagen-fibril matrix with respect to fibril microstructure (i.e., fibril density, interfibril branching), viscoelasticity and proteolytic degradability. As shown herein these matrices template and direct the deposition of mesoporous silica at the level of individual collagen fibrils. The fibril density, silicic acid concentration, and time of exposure to silicifying solution were varied and the resulting hybrid materials were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive x-ray spectroscopy, and rheology. Microstructural properties of the collagen-fibril template are preserved in the silica surface of hybrid materials.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides solid collagen constructs and tissue compositions, wherein a polymerizable collagen solution or suspension is extruded in the presence or absence of cells to formed an aligned architecture comprising solid collagen constructs such as those made with fibrillar collagen. Methods of using and of manufacturing solid collagen constructs and tissue compositions, where the component collagen is solid fibrillar collagen and cells are preferentially aligned, are also provided.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides an engineered collagen composition comprising collagen, wherein the collagen composition is compressed to form a gradient of at least one physical property. Methods of using and of manufacturing the engineered collagen compositions of the present disclosure are also provided.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides solid collagen constructs and tissue compositions, wherein a polymerizable collagen solution or suspension is extruded in the presence or absence of cells to formed an aligned architecture comprising solid collagen constructs such as those made with fibrillar collagen. Methods of using and of manufacturing solid collagen constructs and tissue compositions, where the component collagen is solid fibrillar collagen and cells are preferentially aligned, are also provided.

Abstract: The invention relates to engineered collagen scaffolds with a thickness of from about 0.005 mm to about 3 mm, and with a high strength (e.g., a high elastic modulus of from about 0.5 MPa to about 200 MPa). The engineered collagen scaffolds can be non-collapsible and/or non-expandable. This disclosure also relates to methods of use of these collagen scaffolds.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides an engineered collagen composition comprising collagen, wherein the collagen composition is compressed to form a gradient of at least one physical property. Methods of using and of manufacturing the engineered collagen compositions of the present disclosure are also provided.

Abstract: Compositions and methods for filling tissue voids and defects with a self-assembling biopolymer configured to form a shape-retaining matrix are described.

Abstract: The invention relates to methods of preparing matrices, and compositions therefor. In particular, the invention relates to methods of preparing collagen matrices, and compositions therefor, including kits and graft compositions.

Abstract: Compositions comprising collagen and insulin-producing cells are provided. Processes for making such a collagen and insulin-producing cell compositions are also provided. Methods for controlling, or lowering blood glucose levels and treating metabolic disorders in mammals, including type 1 diabetes, with such compositions are further provided. Methods to prolong insulin-producing cell viability and function in vitro or during transport are also provided.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides solid collagen constructs and tissue compositions, wherein a polymerizable collagen solution or suspension is extruded in the presence or absence of cells to formed an aligned architecture comprising solid collagen constructs such as those made with fibrillar collagen. Methods of using and of manufacturing solid collagen constructs and tissue compositions, where the component collagen is solid fibrillar collagen and cells are preferentially aligned, are also provided.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides an engineered collagen composition comprising collagen, wherein the collagen composition is compressed to form a gradient of at least one physical property. Methods of using and of manufacturing the engineered collagen compositions of the present disclosure are also provided.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides an engineered collagen composition comprising collagen, wherein the collagen composition is compressed to form a gradient of at least one physical property. Methods of using and of manufacturing the engineered collagen compositions of the present disclosure are also provided.

Abstract: Collagen based-matrices and methods of their use are described. More particularly, collagen-based matrices for differentiating stem cells and progenitor cells, and for producing and isolating blood vessels and vascularized graft constructs are described.

Abstract: Cell culture scaffolds presenting a more biologically relevant microenvironment are disclosed. More particularly, these cell culture scaffolds comprise three-dimensional matrices/biomaterials that are created from solubilized collagen compositions using controlled conditions to have the desired microstructure and mechanical properties. The engineered purified collagen based matrix compositions of the present invention can be used alone or in combination with cells as a tissue graft construct to enhance the repair of damaged or diseased tissues.

Abstract: A composition for culturing stem cells is provided. The composition comprises an engineered purified collagen based matrix that has been formed under controlled conditions to have the desired microstructure and mechanical properties. The engineered purified collagen based matrix compositions of the present invention can be used alone or in combination with cells as a tissue graft construct to enhance the repair of damaged or diseased tissues.

Abstract: A cell culture growth substrate comprising submucosal tissue of a warm-blooded vertebrate and a method for culturing fastidious organisms is described. Submucosal tissue used in accordance with the present invention supports the proliferation of cells when said cells are contacted with submucosal tissue under conditions conducive to cell proliferation.

Abstract: The invention relates to engineered matrices comprising collagen fibrils with specific characteristics, including, but not limited to, a specific fibril area fraction (i.e., density) and/or a specific elastic or linear modulus (i.e., stiffness). The invention also relates to methods of preparation and use of the matrices.

Abstract: Collagen compositions, methods for preparing those collagen compositions, and graft compositions formed from those collagen compositions are provided. In particular, methods of isolating collagen that exhibits an enhanced rate of polymerization and enhanced microstructural and mechanical properties upon polymerization, such collagen compositions, and graft compositions formed from such collagen compositions are provided.

Abstract: Collagen based-matrices and methods of their use are described. More particularly, collagen-based matrices and methods for regulating vessel density and size within collagen-based matrices are described.

Abstract: Collagen compositions, methods for preparing those collagen compositions, and graft compositions formed from those collagen compositions are provided. In particular, methods of isolating collagen that exhibits an enhanced rate of polymerization and enhanced microstructural and mechanical properties upon polymerization, such collagen compositions, and graft compositions formed from such collagen compositions are provided.