Evaluation of a Micronized Collagen Wound Matrix for Advanced Wound Management: Physical, Structural and Biochemical Properties

ABSTRACT

Wounds affect millions worldwide and non‐healing wounds are characterised by excessive protease activity, impaired extracellular matrix remodelling and persistent inflammation, highlighting the need for innovative extracellular matrix‐based therapies. This study evaluated a micronized collagen wound matrix (Collagen Wound Matrix‐Micronized; CWM‐MZ), a biomaterial derived from porcine small intestinal submucosa and processed into a micronized form. Physical and structural properties of CWM‐MZ were characterised using collagen content and structure, sulphated glycosaminoglycan content, deoxyribonucleic acid removal, particle size and its ability to inhibit protease activity. Functional in vitro assays were used to assess biochemical responses using dermal fibroblasts and endothelial cells under conditions simulating wound fluid to evaluate effects on cell viability, migration, sulphated glycosaminoglycan production, collagen type I deposition and tube formation. Physically and structurally, CWM‐MZ preserved the native collagen architecture, was robustly decellularized and exhibited dose‐dependent inhibition of multiple proteases, achieving over 80% inhibition of matrix metalloproteinases. Using in vitro cell‐based assays, CWM‐MZ resulted in enhanced fibroblast viability, supported fibroblast migration, increased sulphated glycosaminoglycan and collagen type I production and led to more robust formation of capillary‐like structures by endothelial cells. These results highlight how CWM‐MZ may support an environment for wound healing and its continued evaluation as a novel extracellular matrix‐based biomaterial for wound management.