Multifunctional implantable particles for skin tissue regeneration: Preparation, characterization, in vitro and in vivo studies

The transplantation of cell-polymer constructs has been developed as a novel approach to curing tissue defects. However, a number of methodological problems remain to be solved, including the loss of a proper cellular milieu, the relatively long period of culture time and the complexity of the application. The aim of the present article is to evaluate the feasibility of porous gelatin-based implantable particles as a novel strategy for delivery of cultured cells and bioactive molecules to correct dermal defects. For this purpose, implantable porous gelatin particles (100-230 mu m) encapsulating proliferative growth factors were prepared and characterized, and their influence on fibroblasts was assessed. In vivo examinations were undertaken to observe guided dermal tissue regeneration after the transplantation of the implantable particles. Our results indicate the feasibility of transplanting multifunctional implantable particles as a culture substrate, as a protein transplantation vehicle or as a biodegradable implant for skin regeneration, thus giving an indication of the possible applications in tissue engineering. (C) 2008 Acta Materialia Inc. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.