Rheological Properties of Extracellular Matrix Derived Gels

Bioscaffolds composed of extracellular matrix (ECM) have been used for the repair of a variety of tissues often leading to tissue-specific constructive remodeling [1]. ECM scaffolds are typically prepared by decellularization of tissues and are composed of the structural proteins (e.g. collagen) and functional proteins (e.g. growth factors) that characterize the native ECM. However, for certain applications, the use of ECM scaffolds can be limited by the native two-dimensional sheet form in which they are harvested.