Title:

Tuning Collagen-DexMA Ratio and Stiffness for the Vascularization of Cells

We optimized the ratio of dexma and collagen to develop a hydrogel that better supports cellular vascularization. DexMA contributes structural integrity by forming strong ionic crosslinks during UV exposure with Irgacure, while collagen provides a biomimicking component, as it is the primary protein of the extracellular matrix (ECM) in the human body. The overall goal is to create a hydrogel suitable for use as a wound dressing that promotes faster healing, maintains biocompatibility, and can conform to the shape of the injury. After adjusting the DexMA-to-collagen ratio, we determined that a concentration of 3 mg/mL best supports cell viability. We then evaluated UV exposure time to achieve the desired gel stiffness while minimizing cell damage. By testing different UV and incubation conditions, we found that 30 seconds of UV exposure followed by 30 minutes of incubation provides an optimal balance between effective polymerization and cell survival. Using the adjusted parameters we found, we made our hydrogels with our HDF, and HUVECS and imaged them under a confocal microscope. We didn’t find any signs of vascularization, but we hope to change the ratio of the cells to improve our chances of seeing angiogenesis in future experiments.

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