The co-culture of keratinocytes and fibroblasts on a MultI-layered polyester nanofibrous membrane enriched with platelet lysate

Abstract

The prevalence of chronic wounds is increasing due to the population ageing and specific illnesses like diabetes mellitus and vascular diseases. Nanofibrous membranes fabricated using synthetic polymers are promising materials to enhance skin wound healing. PCL and PVA membranes are being studied to be used as scaffolds for skin tissue engineering and hydrogels for controlled drug delivery, respectively. The present study considers the development of a multi-layered membrane made of PCL and PVA loaded with platelet lysate (PL). PCL nanofibers allowed cell adhesion and growth, whereas PVA acted as a hydrogel that releases the bioactive compounds of platelet lysate. The cytocompatibility of the membranes containing PL and without it was demonstrated on two cell types involved in wound healing, i.e. keratinocytes and fibroblasts. Both cell types were able to adhere and proliferate on the membranes. In addition, the membrane containing PL enhanced the proliferation of fibroblasts. A co-culture study was also performed by seeding each cell type on one side of the membrane. The cells were co-cultured for 7 days and the results showed that PL increased the proliferation of cells achieving a monolayer of keratinocytes or fibroblasts on each side of the membrane. Thus, the beneficial effect of PCL-PVA+PL membranes on monocultures and co-cultures of skin cells was demonstrated, and these membranes can be considered potential scaffolds for treatment of chronic wounds.