Optimization of elastin proportion and crosslinking for collagen-elastin scaffolds as skin substitutes

Despite advancements in clinical practice, the creation of an ideal skin substitute remains a significant challenge. An effective dermal substitute must closely replicate both the structure and function of natural skin while facilitating rapid wound healing. Biomaterials such as collagen and elastin, essential components of the extracellular matrix, are known for their biocompatibility and degradability. Our research aims to investigate the structural, chemical, mechanical, and biological characteristics of composite collagen-elastin scaffolds as dermal templates, with a focus on elastin concentration, lyophilization techniques, crosslinking strategies, and the production of large-sized scaffolds for potential industrial-scale applications. Twelve different scaffold compositions were developed using three ratios of insoluble collagen fibrils and solubilized elastin (95:5, 90:10, and 80:20, w/w), two lyophilization approaches (at room temperature and with dehydrothermal (DHT) treatment) and with and without additional chemical crosslinking. Our findings indicate that increasing elastin content led to larger pore sizes in line with compromised mechanical strength and water absorption. Chemical crosslinking significantly improved mechanical properties and enzymatic resistance, while DHT treatment accelerated drying without seriously affecting physicochemical properties. Among the tested formulations, scaffolds that contained the lowest applied amount of elastin, and underwent DHT treatment followed by consecutive crosslinking, emerged as the most durable and resilient skin substitutes. The selected scaffold demonstrated favorable mechanical stability and structural integrity and reduced enzymatic susceptibility. Further studies are necessary to assess their effectiveness in regenerative medicine and potential in clinical applications.