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

This data collection contains research data (SEM images, stained sections, chemical analysis, mechanical tests, biological assays) underlying the results of a scientific research article. Below is a short explanation of the experiments and the content of the collection. Background: Despite advancements in clinical practice, the creation of an ideal skin substitute remains a significant challenge. Biomaterials such as collagen and elastin, essential components of the extracellular matrix, are known for their biocompatibility and degradability, and may serve as promising materials for creating new dermal scaffolds. Goal of the research: We investigated 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.