Background Electrospinning is a method for fabricating fibers with nano and micro scale meshes. It is highly valuable for mimicking the extracellular matrix due to its ability to create scaffolds with high porosity and a high surface to volume ratio. Collagen is one of the most abundant proteins in the extracellular matrix of the human body. To enhance the strength and improve the mechanical properties of tissues made from this material, synthetic polymers are often used, which provide excellent biocompatibility without compromising biological activity. Objective In this study, we explored the potential of electrospun scaffolds composed of collagen as the main component and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) as a carrier polymer, which contributes to stability and mechanical strength. Methods Lactic acid, a biocompatible solvent and a suitable alternative to other common solvents, served to compare and assess the effect of solvents on the structure and properties of collagen. Citric acid facilitated fiber stabilization due to its ability to create strength and form ester bonds that maintain biocompatibility. Rat tail collagen was chosen as the main component of the study, to control the PH of the solution, a1 molar lactic acid was used. The resulting solution was electrospun with PVA, and citric acid was used as a natural, non-toxic cross-linking agent for the structural integrity of the scaffolds. To evaluate the suitability of these scaffolds for biomedical applications, structural and biological Abstracts Submission Format 7 th International Conference on Preclinical Imaging Applications 2 assessments were conducted. The obtained scaffold underwent Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) imaging, and MTT cell viability assays. Finally, the proliferation of bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) on the scaffold was quantitatively and qualitatively examined. Results Morphological analysis results showed a uniform scaffold with appropriate fiber diameter for cell attachment. The MTT assay with L929 cells demonstrated biocompatibility, cell viability, and proliferation. FTIR spectroscopy confirmed cross-linking and the preservation of collagen structure integrity. The culture of BMSCs on the scaffolds, followed by cell fixation and staining with crystal violet, showed suitable proliferation and survival compared to the control sample. Conclusion The results indicate that the use of lactic acid leads to the formation of a homogeneous solution that preserves collagen structure and facilitates the electrospinning process. Additionally, citric acid acts as a significant cross-linking agent in forming stable ester bonds with biopolymers, significantly improving the mechanical strength and durability of the fibers. The study of BMSC culture demonstrates the promising potential of this scaffold for biomedical and tissue engineering applications.

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