Effect of PDGF-B Gene-Activated Acellular Matrix and Mesenchymal Stem Cell Transplantation on Full Thickness Skin Burn Wound in Rat Model

Background: Full thickness burn wounds are lack of angiogenesis, cell migration, epithelialisation and finally scar tissue formation. Tissue engineered composite graft can provide sustained release of growth factor and promote the wound healing by cell migration, early angiogenesis and proliferation of extracellular matrix and wound remodeling. The objective of this study was to evaluate the gene embedded (pDNA-platelet-derived growth factor, PDGF-B) porcine acellular urinary bladder matrix with transfected mesenchymal stem cells (rBMSC) on healing of full thickness burn wound in rat model. Methods: Full thickness burn wound of 2 x 2 cm size was created in dorsum of rat model under general anesthesia. Burn wounds were treated with silver sulfadiazine; porcine acellular urinary bladder matrix (PAUBM); PAUBM transfected with pDNA-PDGF-B; PAUBM seeded with rBMSC; PAUBM seeded with rBMSC transfected with pDNA-PDGF-B in groups A, B, C, D and E respectively. The wound healing was assessed based on clinical, macroscopically, immunologically, histopathological and RT-qPCR parameters. Results: Wound was significantly healed in group E and group D with early extracellular matrix deposition, enhanced granulation tissue formation and early angiogenesis compared to all other groups. The immunologic response against porcine acellular matrix showed that PDGF-B gene activated matrix along with stem cell group showed less antibody titer against acellular matrix than other groups in all intervals. PDGF gene activated matrix releasing the PDGF-B and promote the healing of full thickness burn wound with neovascularization and neo tissue formation. PDGF gene also enhances secretion of other growth factors results in PDGF mediated regenerative activities. This was confirmed in RT-qPCR at various time intervals. Conclusion: Gene activated matrix encoded for PDGF-B protein transfected stem cells have been clinically proven for early acceleration of angiogenesis and tissue regeneration in burn wounds in rat models. Graphic abstract Evaluation of PDGF-B gene-activated acellular matrix and mesenchymal stem cell in full thickness skin burn wound in rat.

Automated summary

This study demonstrated that implanting gene-activated acellular matrix encoding for PDGF-B protein and transfected stem cells can enhance healing of full thickness burn wounds in rat models by promoting angiogenesis and tissue regeneration. The results suggest that PDGF gene activation in the matrix stimulates neovascularization and wound healing through the release of growth factors, ultimately facilitating regenerative activities.