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Updated: Jul 28, 2026
08:35
Generation of a Three-dimensional Full Thickness Skin Equivalent and Automated Wounding
Published on: February 26, 2015
Acute excisional wounds treated with a tissue-engineered skin (Apligraf)
W H Eaglstein1, O M Alvarez, M Auletta
1Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery, University of Miami School of Medicine, Florida, USA.
Summary
Tissue-engineered skin (Apligraf) shows promising safety and utility for acute wounds. This study indicates potential benefits for patients undergoing excisional surgery, particularly for skin cancer.
Area of Science:
- Regenerative Medicine
- Biomaterials Science
- Dermatology
Background:
- Tissue-engineered products utilize living cells and matrices for in vitro growth.
- Apligraf is a bilayered construct of neonatal fibroblasts, keratinocytes, and collagen.
Purpose of the Study:
- Evaluate tissue therapy with Apligraf in partial/full-thickness excisional wounds.
- Assess the safety and efficacy of a novel tissue-engineered skin substitute.
Main Methods:
- Prospective, multicentered open study involving 107 patients.
- Apligraf applied once post-excision, typically for skin cancer.
- Follow-up duration of up to one year.
Main Results:
- No clinical or laboratory evidence of rejection observed.
- Good to excellent graft persistence in 73.3% of patients at one week.
- Persistence rates at two weeks and one month were 56.6% and 53.6% respectively.
Conclusions:
- Largest experience to date with tissue-engineered skin in acute wounds.
- Tissue therapy with Apligraf suggests safety and potential usefulness.
- Further research may support Apligraf in wound management.
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