Different collagen-based films can differentially influence Schwann cell development in a peripheral nervous tissue regeneration system

Collagen is one of the most used materials in scaffolding production; this is due to its peculiar characteristics that make the polymer highly biocompatible and efficient in regeneration induction and growth cone guidance. We aimed to investigate whether collagen could per se induce Schwann cell differentiation/proliferation and how it would do so. Results obtained in immortalized rat Schwann cells showed differential effects on several proliferation and differentiation markers depending on the type of collagen used to produce the scaffolds.