Composite nanofibrous membranes (NFM) of type I collagen, chitosan, and polyethylene oxide was fabricated by electrospinning, which could be further crosslinked by glutaraldehyde vapor. The NFM was subject to detailed analysis by scanning electron microscopy, scanning probe microscopy, confocal laser scanning microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and tensile testing. Nanofiber diameter was found to be 134 +/- 42 nm, which increased to 398 +/- 76 nm after crosslinking. The Young's modulus increased after crosslinking, however, the ultimate tensile strength, tensile strain, and water sorption capability decreased after crosslinking. NFMs showed no cytotoxicity toward growth of 3T3 fibroblasts and had good in vitro biocompatibility. From animal studies, the NFM was better than gauze and commercial collagen sponge wound dressing in wound healing rate. This novel electrospun matrix will have potential as a wound dressing for skin regeneration. (c) 2007 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.