Modifications of collagen-based biomaterials with immobilized growth factors or peptides

• We modified collagen sponges with immobilized growth factors or peptides.
• Chitosan-collagen hydrogel was modified with immobilized QHREDGS peptide.
• Immobilization efficiency, release rate, and physical property were characterized.
• We described in vitro assays to test the modified biomaterials with cell culture.

In order to provide an instructive microenvironment to facilitate cellular behaviors and tissue regeneration, biomaterials can be modified by immobilizing growth factors or peptides. We describe here our procedure for modification of collagen-based biomaterials, both porous scaffolds and hydrogel systems, with growth factors or peptides by covalent immobilization. Characterizations of the modified biomaterials (immobilization efficiency, release profile, morphology, mechanical strength, and rheology) and in vitro testing with cells are also discussed.