Matricel develops and produces collagen scaffolds for tissue engineering applications that are applied in the clinic since 2002. The OptiMaix product line was specifically developed to provide optimized scaffolds for both in vitro and in vivo research purposes, facilitating advances in tissue engineering and biotechnology. OptiMaix-2D and OptiMaix-3D scaffolds have proven compatible with a wide range of cell types including stem cells (embryonic stem cells, bone marrow derived stem cells, adipose tissue derived stem cells), differentiated primary cells (e.g. fibroblasts, chondrocytes, adipocytes, olfactory nerve cells, astrocytes, Schwann cells) as well as with a number ofcell lines.
OptiMaix scaffolds are stable under normal cell culture conditions and have typically been used for culturing periods of up to three weeks. In in vivo investigations, (cell seeded) OptiMaix have been demostrated to be biodegradable in the absence of any significant inflammatory reactions. OptiMaix-2D scaffolds are collagen membranes that provide a flat surface for cell culture experiments. They have a dense fibrous side and an open fibrous side. Both sides can be seeded with cells depending on the application. The dense fibrous side has been shown to be beneficial for the culture of epithelial-like cells, while the open fibrous side allows a limited migration of cells into the fibrous structure.
OptiMaix-3D scaffolds provide a unique three-dimensional matrix structure for in vitro investigations. As a result of the patented manufacturing process, the highly orientated and porous three-dimensional scaffold offers a guidance structure that supports substantial cell migration, proliferation and maintained viability. The further proliferation, differentiation or growth of the cells deep within the OptiMaix-3D scaffolds can be adequately controlled due to excellent diffusion properties of the matrix for nutrients, growth factors and gases.