Collagen Analysis

Collagen analysis supporting product development, authorisation and manufacturing through characterisation, biochemical analysis & impurity profiling

Collagen analysis helps to characterise and ensure the safety of a multitude of healthcare products that incorporate this extracellular matrix protein. These applications include wound care, burns care, orthopaedic graft products, tissue engineering, hemostatic sponges, injectables for soft tissue augmentation, as a vehicle for drug delivery and as an ingredient in skin and hair care products. Collagen is a highly versatile material and there is a growing interest in the processing and characterisation of many types of collagen as developers find new applications.

The chemical, physical, biological, immunological, or toxicological properties of a collagen material may vary depending on the source material and the processing treatment used to process the collagen. If you are developing or manufacturing a collagen-containing biomaterial, collagen analysis via the most suitable test methods is required to  identify the specific collagen material, its properties and the presence of process residuals.

Our collagen analysis scientists offer characterisation services, including physical and biochemical analysis and impurity profiling with expertise in the delivery of multi-technique analytical packages that give you the insight you need to progress development or achieve regulatory approval. 

We understand that regulatory authorities frequently request more detailed information. Our experience means we apply the most suitable technique to meet your requirements. Our team have extensive experience in data provision for regulatory submission packages for multiple regions around the globe and has worked with many clients to characterise their collagen products and other tissue scaffold materials.

Collagen Characterisation

• Collagen Content / Purity (Hydroxyproline Determination)
• Amino Acid Analysis 
• Total Protein Content
• Moisture Content

Collagen Biochemical Characterisation 

• SDS-PAGE Analysis 
• Total DNA (ppm or %) 
• Total Lipid content 
• Trypsin Resistance 
• Collagenase Resistance 
• GAGs Levels
• Gelatin Testing according to European Pharmacopeia
• Elastin Assay

Collagen Physical Characterisation 

• Viscosity (Mainly soluble samples) 
• TEM or SEM - Electron Micrograph (native banded 640 Å structure for fibrils sizing and D-spacing.
• Mechanical Testing (e.g. tensile strength) 
• Light Microscopy 
• Surface Characterisation

Collagen Impurities Profile 

• Heavy Metal Analysis 
• Additives (cross-linkers, lubricants, drugs, preservatives) 
• Process Residuals (antibiotics, detergents, etc.) 
• Host Cell Contaminants