Mesenchymal cells as the biological modifiers for stimulation and regulation of cellular and molecular healing and regeneration

Abstract

Biologic modifiers are materials or proteins and factors that have the potential to alter the host tissue so as to stimulate or regulate the wound healing process. Classic examples of biologic modifiers are growth factors. Bioengineered materials are widely utilized due to their biocompatibility and degradability, as well as their moisturizing and antibacterial properties. One field of their application in medicine is to treat wounds by promoting tissue regeneration and improving wound healing. In addition to creating a physical and chemical barrier against primary infection, the mechanical stability of the porous structure of biomaterials provides an extracellular matrix (ECM)-like niche for cells. Growth factors are polypeptide molecules that control the growth, differentiation, and metabolism of cells during each of the three phases of wound healing. They are present throughout the body in only minute concentrations yet exert a powerful local influence on wound repair. They interact with specific receptors in the cell surface, leading to specific responses determined by the receptor-mediated signal transduction pathways within the target cells. Growth factors (GFs) and cytokines, which are secreted by the cells, are essential parts of the complex process of tissue regeneration and wound healing.