In vivo optimization of a living dermal substitute employing cultured human fibroblasts on a biodegradable polyglycolic acid or polyglactin mesh

PLLA–collagen and PLLA–gelatin hybrid scaffolds with funnel-like porous structure for skin tissue engineering

“…To maintain the scaffold structure and shape after seeding the cells and during implantation, the scaffolds should be mechanically strong, because the dermis needs to provide physical support and flexibility to the skin. Biodegradable synthetic polymers such as poly(l-lactic acid) (PLLA), poly(glycolic acid) (PGA), poly(dl-lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) and poly (ε-caprolactone) (PCL) have also been used to prepare porous scaffolds for skin tissue engineering [6,7]. The scaffolds prepared from biodegradable synthetic polymers have favorable mechanical properties.…”

Collagen: Applications of a Natural Polymer in Regenerative Medicine

“…Clinical studies have shown it to be useful as a dermal substitute in full thickness burns without signs of rejection, showing revascularisation, cellular repopulation, incorporation into the wound and cosmetic results similar to intermediate thickness skin grafts (Wainwright et al 1996). Dermagraft (Cooper et al 1991) is fabricated by seeding and maintaining fibroblasts on a Vicryl mesh for a period of 2 to 3 weeks to achieve a sufficient amount of tissue formation for a therapeutic effect. The product is currently FDA approved for the treatment of venous (Omar et al 2004), neuropathic and diabetic ulcers (Marston et al 2003).…”

Review Paper: Burn Coverage Technologies: Current Concepts and Future Directions

“…The fibroblasts become confluent within the polymer mesh, secreting growth factors and dermal matrix proteins (collagens, tenascin, vitronectin, and glycosaminoglycans), thus creating a living dermal structure [35]. This remains viable and metabolically active after implantation into the wound, despite cryopreservation [36]. Dermagraft facilitates healing by stimulating the ingrowth of fibrovascular tissue from the wound bed and re-epithelialization from the wound edges.…”