Scientists from Immanuel Kant Baltic Federal University and Voronezh State University have developed a flexible and durable scaffold for cell growth. The material is built from collagen protein extracted from the Dosidicus gigas squid. This scaffold holds promise for cultivating human cells, enabling the creation of 3D printed tissue engineering structures, and supporting microsurgical procedures. The development was shared with socialbites.ca by the Russian Ministry of Education and Science.
Collagen is the key protein that forms the extracellular matrix, the natural environment that surrounds cells in connective tissues such as tendons, bones, and cartilage. In medical settings, collagen acts as a medium that encourages tissue growth and guides the differentiation of cells. The research team proposed using a natural squid-derived collagen rather than synthetic, lab-made variants as a scaffold for cell growth. This natural protein from the giant squid Dosidicus gigas plays a central role in constructing a three dimensional support framework for tissues.
A notable feature of this squid collagen is its non-toxicity. Experiments show an average cell survival rate of around 90 percent on this material, a rate closely aligned with mammalian collagen. In addition, connective tissue cells cultured on the squid scaffold align along a defined direction, a trait that is important for proper tissue and organ formation. The scaffold also forms a barrier between developing connective tissue and the target organ during potential surgeries, which can aid in precision and safety.
Experts note that the collagen scaffold technology is straightforward to implement and scales well in industrial settings. Tests indicate that the squid-derived material combines high strength with remarkable flexibility, is compatible with living tissue, does not provoke toxicity, and supports the growth, division, and migration of human embryonic cells. This body of work suggests that squid collagen could be a viable alternative to conventional synthetic collagen used in regenerative medicine, offering a natural, biocompatible option for tissue engineering and surgical applications.
The choice of squid as the source material stems from several practical advantages. Squid tissues can be harvested in large quantities, providing a steady supply for research and production. Additionally, the processing methods for squid collagen avoid the shell component and other materials often associated with seafood products, reducing potential contaminants and simplifying quality control measures. The researchers emphasized the reliability of the squid raw material and the consistency of its properties, which support reproducibility in industrial workflows.
Beyond the laboratory bench, the implications of this work span clinical and industrial domains. If validated through further studies and regulatory evaluations, squid collagen could advance regenerative strategies in orthopedic, dental, and ocular therapies where a robust and bioactive scaffold is essential. The material’s natural origin, combined with its adaptability for 3D printing and microsurgical contexts, positions it as a versatile platform for both research and practical medicine. In addition to shaping the design of future scaffolds, the approach highlights the value of sourcing biocompatible proteins from abundant marine life, potentially reducing dependence on engineered proteins while maintaining high performance. The broader takeaway is that natural biomaterials, when properly characterized and manufactured, can match or exceed the capabilities of synthetic alternatives in guiding tissue formation and enabling precise medical interventions.
Recent discussions within the scientific community have focused on optimizing the processing steps to preserve collagen integrity and to tailor the scaffold structure for different tissue types. Researchers are exploring how variations in pore size, mechanical strength, and surface chemistry influence cell behavior. They are also investigating how the squid-derived collagen interacts with a range of human cell lines under dynamic, physiologically relevant conditions. The aim is to refine the material so it can be customized for specific regenerative missions, from bone regeneration to soft tissue repair, while maintaining a clear safety profile. The work reflects a growing emphasis on translating marine-derived biomaterials into clinical tools that can improve outcomes and expand the possibilities of modern medicine.