Combined bioprinting with stem cell technology to regenerate skin burn wounds

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PROJECT SUMMARY The skin (epidermis) is responsible for protecting the body and works as a specialized, vital defensive barrier. Upon injury, the immediate response of the epidermis and its stem cells aims to reestablish local homeostasis. Extensive injuries, often observed in burn patients, compromise the epidermal homeostasis, which leads to dehydration, possible severe infections, and death. New therapeutic strategies designed to improve healing and burn injuries are critically needed. Our translation-focused innovative strategy aims to develop mechanism-based and material engineering-driven therapies to augment epidermal healing. Here, we are developing novel and exciting biodegradable scaffolds for the controlled delivery of key recombinant proteins and cells to positively reestablish an epidermal barrier and wound closure. We propose to study how this novel therapeutic strategy affects the skin stem cells and wound healing process. Furthermore, we will determine the therapeutic effectiveness of 3D tissue engineering on burn wounds using bioprinting technology. Our positive results will improve the mechanistic understanding of how patient-originated stem cells and epidermal cells along with 3D bioprinting contribute to the healing of burn wounds. By accomplishing these specific aims, we will aid in the management of burn patients, using limited donor tissues and help to reduce burn patients’ recovery time.