Human skin fibroblasts
Fibroblasts are the main cellular component of the skin, providing its homeostasis and morphofunctional organization. Today, these are the most studied cells and constitute a key link in skin biology. They perform a number of diverse and complex functions: they control the composition and structure of the extracellular matrix of the dermis (collagen, elastin, proteoglycans, and structural glycoproteins), ensuring its remodeling and renewal, and also maintain the physiological state of all layers of the skin.
A biomedical cell product (BMCP) based on cultured dermal fibroblasts is used to treat chronic non-healing wounds and trophic ulcers, as well as to correct atrophic cicatricial and age-related skin changes. Biomaterial for the production of BMCP is a biopsy specimen of a healthy skin area of about 3 – 5 mm.
Local transplantation of cultured dermal fibroblasts with deep skin defects makes it possible to replenish the population of these cells lost during the chronic wound process due to young and functionally active fibroblasts, which begin to synthesize the extracellular matrix, cytokines, and chemokines, mobilize immune cells and apply physical strength for tissue repair. Stimulation of angiogenesis seems to be a key factor for the healing of ulcers formed against the background of microcirculation disorders.
Cell therapy of atrophic and age-related changes in the skin allows you to start the natural processes of remodeling the microstructure of the dermis. After transplantation, cultured dermal fibroblasts are fully integrated into the dermis, maintaining their biosynthetic activity for a long time. As a result of an increase in the synthesis of own collagen and restoration of microcirculation, there is a modification of the architecture of the dermis, an increase in the content of collagen fibers in it, an increase in skin hydration, an increase in its density and thickness.