Systems, methods, and apparatuses for modulating proteases including matrix metalloproteinase (MMP), elastase, and bacterial protease in a negative pressure therapy system are described. A mesh having a sacrificial substrate is included. The sacrificial substrate includes a plurality of collagen fibers reinforced with a supporting material and intersecting with each other to form a network of collagen fibers having a plurality openings. The openings of the plurality of openings have an average area between about 0.5 mm2 and about 20 mm2 to permit the flow of negative pressure through the mesh. The sacrificial substrate can also include oxidized regenerated cellulose.