Collagen Cryogel Cross‐Linked by Dialdehyde Starch

Abstract

Abstract A 3D spongy collagen cryogel was prepared using DAS as the cross‐linker. FTIR and CD studies demonstrate that crosslinking is achieved through the reaction of the DAS aldehyde groups with the free amino groups in collagen without affecting the triple helix of collagen. SEM demonstrates that the cryogel has a heteroporous structure with interconnecting pores. DSC measurements reveal that the cryogels have improved thermal stability in comparison with pure collagen. Moreover, the ESR shows that the water uptake of the cryogel decreases with DAS content. Evaporation tests indicate that the cryogel can hold moisture for a long time. Since both collagen and DAS are nontoxic and the resultant cryogel is blood‐compatible, the cryogel is expected to be useful, e.g., as wound dressing. magnified image