In vitro and ex vivo analysis of hyaluronan supplementation of Integra® dermal template on human dermal fibroblasts and keratinocytes.

PURPOSE

Widespread application of collagen-glycosaminoglycan dermal templates in the treatment of cutaneous defects has identified the interval between initial engraftment and skin graft application as important for improvement. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of hyaluronan supplementation of Integra® dermal template on human dermal fibroblasts and keratinocytes in both in vitro and ex vivo models.

METHODS

This study utilized in vitro and ex vivo cell culture techniques to investigate supplementing Integra® Regeneration Template with hyaluronan (HA), as a strategy to decrease this interval. In vitro, Integra® was HA supplemented at 0.15, 1, 1.5 and 2 mg/mL-1. Primary human dermal fibroblast (PHDF) and keratinocyte proliferation, PHDF viability, migration and HA-induced signal transduction (phosphor-MAPK Array) were assessed. Ex vivo, wound models (wound diameter 4 mm) were created within 8 mm skin biopsies. Wounds were filled with Integra® or HA supplemented Integra®. Re-epithelialization was compared through hematoxylin and eosin-stained cross-sections at 7, 14 and 21 days in culture. Model viability was assessed through lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) assays.

RESULTS

In vitro, PHDF and keratinocyte proliferation were enhanced significantly (p<0.001) when supplemented with HA. S-Phase and G2/M PHDFs in HA supplemented scaffolds increased. PHDF viability was enhanced to 72 hours culture with 1.5 mg/mL-1 HA (p = 0.016). PHDF migration was maximally enhanced at 1 mg/mL-1 and 1.5 mg/mL-1, whilst increased levels of phosphorylated Erk/MAPK proteins indicated increased metabolic activity. In ex vivo models, HA supplementation accelerated re-epithelialization at all concentrations. This ex vivo model provides a robust model for preclinical assessment of skin substitutes.

CONCLUSIONS

HA supplementation to Integra® demonstrates increased in vitro growth, viability and migration. Whilst ex vivo data suggest HA supplementation of Integra® may increase rapidity of wound closure.