Collagen hydration affects cellular function

Collagens are the most abundant component of the extracellular matrix. They are known to modulate various stages of developmental processes by regulating cell adhesion, migration, cell shape change, and differentiation. Collagens form multiple orders of complex structures in different configurations. These structures depend highly on inter- and intra-molecular hydrogen bonds formed with water molecules. In this study, we aimed to understand the effect of collagen hydration on fibroblast function, giving mechanistic insights into physico-chemical properties of collagens & diffusion kinetics of metabolites and cytokines, which are known modulators of cellular functions. We use natural rat tail tendon fascicles and 3D printed type -I collagen scaffolds as models for our study. We observed that the hydration state has a significant effect on the electrical and mechanical properties of collagen. Remarkably, collagen rehydration does not reverse structural and mechanical parameters to the initial state, causing differential fibroblast cellular migration, attachment, and proliferation. Such changes in collagen hydration are expected in physiological states like diabetes and aging, where the water content in the body is known to change. This study will open avenues of research that may help us to understand the underlying etiology of many unexplained symptoms associated with these diseases.