Development of topographically controlled electrospun scaffolds to stimulate wound healing for skin tissue engineering

In recent years, several attempts have been made to study these structures in vitro using microfabrication techniques. The first attempts of studying stem cells on rete ridge-like structures were performed by creating undulating surfaces on solid surfaces. However, this approach neglects the effect of the 3D fibrous extracellular environment present on native tissue. New developments in tissue engineering and microfabrication have led to the introduction of complex microtopographies on hydrogels and fibrous scaffolds, with both approaches aiming to mimic the nano and macro components of the rete ridges.

Another key issue to consider when working on skin tissue engineering applications is vascularization; in fact, construct vascularization is often a challenge that hinders tissue viability due to the resulting lack of nutrients on the newly formed tissue. Moreover, the lack of vasculature is often followed by rejection or infection of tissue-engineered constructs. Additionally, other pathological conditions such as chronic inflammation can alter the vascularization process during wound healing. Fabrication of a multifunctional device that can introduce structural cues while improving vascularization is a challenging but attractive strategy for skin tissue regeneration. The work presented here has the potential to generate a versatile fibrous construct able to aid skin regeneration via the introduction of native-like topographical cues as well as offering a platform technology that can release key bioactive agents (e.g., angiogenic compounds) in a controlled manner.