Collagen materials with oriented structure for biomedical applications

Abstract As one of the most critical natural structural proteins in tissues, collagen provides a degree of stiffness and rigidity to some of the liquid components of living organisms. Highly oriented materials composed of uniformly arranged collagen play a crucial role in determining the mechanical properties, physiological and biochemical functions of the matrix. Collagen materials with oriented structures promote and support cell migration and proliferation to achieve physiological structure and function. This review outlines the multilayered structure of collagen. It summarizes recent strategies and methods for constructing oriented collagen materials, including mechanical forces, external field effects, template assist, and biomedical applications of oriented collagen. Finally, we present potential challenges and prospects for developing oriented collagen materials.