researcher Hallym University Seoul, Seoul-t'ukpyolsi, Republic of Korea
Abstract: This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of a human-derived keratin-based bio-ink incorporated wound dressing in promoting wound healing using preclinical animal models. Full-thickness skin defect models were developed in both small animals (Sprague-Dawley rats) and large animals (minipigs) to simulate severe skin wounds. The wound dressings containing keratin-based bio-ink were applied to the wound sites, and their therapeutic effects were systematically assessed. In the rat model, full-thickness skin defects of 1 cm × 1 cm were created on the dorsal area, while defects of 4 cm × 4 cm were established in the minipigs. The wound size was measured weekly using digital imaging and ImageJ analysis to calculate wound closure rates. Histological analyses, including Hematoxylin and Eosin (H&E) staining and Masson's Trichrome staining, were performed to evaluate re-epithelialization, granulation tissue formation, and collagen deposition. In the rat experiments, we focused on evaluating whether an inflammatory response occurred during the early phase of implantation by analyzing the expression levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, including IL-1β and TNF-α. In addition, the expression of genes associated with skin regeneration, such as VEGF, TGF-β1, PDGF, and EGF, was assessed. To investigate these factors, real-time PCR was performed using tissue samples collected at specific time points. Meanwhile, in the pig experiments, transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and skin hydration were measured as critical indicators of skin regeneration and barrier function recovery following the induction of full-thickness skin defects. The keratin-based wound dressing demonstrated enhanced wound healing by promoting re-epithelialization, reducing inflammation, and facilitating organized collagen matrix formation. These findings suggest the potential of human-derived keratin bio-ink as an effective material for advanced wound care applications.
Funding Source: This research was supported by the Korea Health Industry Development Institute (KHIDI), funded by the Ministry of Health & Welfare, Republic of Korea (RS-2022-KH129883).
