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Abstract

A method for preparing cross-linked collagen and cross-linked collagen products. The method includes incubating collagen in a solution including water, at least one polar solvent and at least one sugar, to form cross-linked collagen. The solution may include a buffer having a suitable pH and ionic strength. The method may include removing excess unreacted sugar(s) and polar solvent(s) by washing the cross-linked collagen or by other methods. The method may also include dehydrating the cross-linked collagen, and may include subjecting the cross-linked collagen to critical point drying, or subjecting the collagen to drying or freeze-drying prior to cross-linking. The collagen may be prepared from atelopeptide collagen to reduce antigenicity, but may also be prepared from other suitable collagen types. The concentration and type of the polar solvent(s), the concentration and type of the reducing sugar(s), and the incubation duration may be varied to control the degree of cross-linking. The cross-linked collagen product may be in the form of a wet or dry matrix or membrane or may be suspended in a liquid in the form of an injectable preparation. The method may be applied to collagenous proteins and collagen-like peptides.

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