Autologous adipose-derived stem cell transplantation enhances healing of wound with exposed bone in a rat model

Abstract

AbstractObjectivesSoft tissue wounds with exposed bone often require extended healing times and can be associated with severe complications. We describe the ability of artificial dermis with autogenic adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) to promote the healing of wounds with exposed bone in a rat model.MethodsAdipose tissues harvested from the bilateral inguinal regions of Wistar rats were used as ADSCs. Rats were randomly divided into control and ADSC groups to investigate the efficacy of ADSC transplantation for wound healing (n=20 per group). Soft tissue defects were created on the heads of the rats and were covered with artificial dermis with or without the seeded ADSCs. Specimens from these rats were evaluated using digital image analysis, histology, immunohistochemistry, cell labeling, and real-time reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (Real-time RT-PCR).ResultsThe average global wound area was significantly smaller in the ADSC group than in the control group on days 3, 7, and 14 after surgery (p<0.05). After 14 days, the blood vessel density in the wound increased by 1.6-fold in the ADSC group compared with that in the control group (p<0.01). Real-time RT-PCR results showed higherFgfbandVegfexpression levels at all time points, and higherTgfb1andTgfb3expression levels until 14 days after surgery, in the ADSC group than in the control group (p<0.05).ConclusionsIn wounds with exposed bone, autogenic ADSCs can promote vascularization and wound healing. Use of this cell source has multiple benefits, including convenient clinical application and lack of ethical concerns.