Applications of Human Amniotic Membrane for Tissue Engineering

Abstract

An important component of tissue engineering (TE) is the supporting matrix upon which cells and tissues grow, also known as the scaffold. Scaffolds must easily integrate with host tissue and provide an excellent environment for cell growth and differentiation. Human amniotic membrane (hAM) is considered as a surgical waste without ethical issue, so it is a highly abundant, cost-effective, and readily available biomaterial. It has biocompatibility, low immunogenicity, adequate mechanical properties (permeability, stability, elasticity, flexibility, resorbability), and good cell adhesion. It exerts anti-inflammatory, antifibrotic, and antimutagenic properties and pain-relieving effects. It is also a source of growth factors, cytokines, and hAM cells with stem cell properties. This important source for scaffolding material has been widely studied and used in various areas of tissue repair: corneal repair, chronic wound treatment, genital reconstruction, tendon repair, microvascular reconstruction, nerve repair, and intraoral reconstruction. Depending on the targeted application, hAM has been used as a simple scaffold or seeded with various types of cells that are able to grow and differentiate. Thus, this natural biomaterial offers a wide range of applications in TE applications. Here, we review hAM properties as a biocompatible and degradable scaffold. Its use strategies (i.e., alone or combined with cells, cell seeding) and its degradation rate are also presented.

Synergistic efficacy of colistin and silver nanoparticles impregnated human amniotic membrane in a burn wound infected rat model

“…hAM is an appropriate biological scaffold for the seeding and multiplication of cells with an improved capacity to take up antibiotics. Lyophilization has additional, improved adhesion properties 12 , 28 . Similarly, AgNPs show remarkable antibacterial synergistic effects when combined with colistin and other antibiotics 29 , 30 .…”

“…The decellularization of the hAM removes all cellular components, while its basement membrane and extracellular matrix proteins remain unharmed. The decellularization process has the additional benefit of lowering the immunogenicity response with improved and consistent cellular proliferation and differentiation properties 12 – 14 .…”

Finding the Perfect Membrane: Current Knowledge on Barrier Membranes in Regenerative Procedures: A Descriptive Review

“…Amniotic and chorionic membranes are biological membranes, which means that they are bio-absorbable and compatible with tissues. The human placenta is essential in the development and survival of the fetus, ensuring physical and biological protection [141]. The amniotic membrane consists of a thick basal membrane and an avascular stromal matrix; this is the innermost layer of the placenta.…”

Amniotic Membrane Transplantation an Experience of a Locally Prepared Tissue

“…The AM has been known for promoting epithelialization, inflammation reduction, anti-scarring, anti-angiogenic properties, antimicrobial properties, and lack of immunogenicity. [3][4][5][6] The AMT was used with success in chemical and thermal burns, corneal melting and perforation, recurrent corneal erosion, neurotrophic keratopathy and persistent epithelial defect. Moreover, it proved to be effective after surgical release of corneo-conjunctival adhesions, in the management of acute Stevens Johnson syndrome and in toxic epidermal necrolysis.…”