Collagen-based hybrid 3-D matrices

Attempts to obtain collagen-based biomimetic 3D structures with possible use in the biomedical domain (scaffolds in tissue engineering, component of wound dressing) are presented. Different preparation approaches were applied and the resulted materials were comparatively characterized pointing on advantages/drawbacks of the corresponding preparative alternative. Aiming the material characteristics control in order to achieve the targeted performances required by the application domain, computer aided material selection facilities were considered. Development of supervised artificial network for appropriate composition selection was proved to be an important, efficient tool for control and prediction even for complex multicomponent materials such as those here considered.