Insolubilization of apatite-collagen composites by UV irradiation.

The physico-chemical properties and biocompatibility of insolubilized apatite-collagen composites were examined. A carbonate-containing hydroxyapatite with chemical composition and crystallinity similar to that of bone was synthesized at pH 7.4 and 60 degrees C. The apatite powder was mixed with collagen solution, whose antigenicity had been removed by enzymatic treatment and formed into apatite-collagen pellets. After insolubilization by UV irradiation for 4 h, the composites showed remarkably reduced disintegration and showed good biocompatibility when implanted into rat abdomen.