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Updated: Mar 10, 2026
In Vitro Model of Human Cutaneous Hypertrophic Scarring using Macromolecular Crowding
Published on: May 1, 2020
3D modeling of keloid scars in vitro by cell and tissue engineering
Dutsadee Suttho1,2,3,4, Samlee Mankhetkorn1, Delphine Binda2,4
1Laboratory of Physical Chemistry, Molecular and Cellular Biology, Department of Radiologic Technology, Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Center of Excellence for Molecular Imaging, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand.
Abstract:
Keloids are pathologic scars defined as dermal fibrotic tumors resulting from a disturbance of skin wound healing process. Treatments against keloids are multiple, sometimes empirical and none of them really provides an effective tool for physicians. The lack of effective treatments is correlated with the poor understanding of keloid pathogenesis. To fill this gap, researchers need strong models mimicking keloids as closely as possible. The objective of this study was to establish in vitro a new reconstructed keloid model (RKM), by combining fibroblasts extracted from the three major area of a keloid (center, periphery, non-lesional) in a three-dimensional biomaterial. To this aim, fibroblasts of three keloid locations were extracted and characterized, and then integrated in a hydrated collagen gel matrix during a three-step procedure. The heterogeneity of fibroblasts was assessed according to their proliferative and remodeling capacities. RKMs were further visualized and characterized by both light and scanning electron microscopy. This reconstructed keloid model should be very useful for investigating keloid fibroblasts function in conditions mimicking in vivo situation. Moreover, RKM should also be a suitable model for either drug study and discovery or innovative approaches using medical devices both during cancer and cancer-like disease investigation.
Insights
Researchers developed a novel reconstructed keloid model (RKM) using fibroblasts from different keloid areas. This 3D biomaterial model aids in understanding keloid pathogenesis and testing new treatments.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Wound Healing Research
- Biomaterials Science
Background:
- Keloids are pathological scars representing dermal fibrotic tumors.
- Current keloid treatments are limited due to poor understanding of their pathogenesis.
- Effective in vitro models are crucial for advancing keloid research.
Purpose of the Study:
- To establish a new in vitro reconstructed keloid model (RKM).
- To combine fibroblasts from distinct keloid regions (center, periphery, non-lesional).
- To utilize a three-dimensional biomaterial for mimicking in vivo conditions.
Main Methods:
- Fibroblasts were extracted from three keloid locations and characterized.
- Fibroblasts were integrated into a hydrated collagen gel matrix.
- A three-step procedure was employed to create the RKM.
- Fibroblast heterogeneity was assessed via proliferative and remodeling capacities.
- RKMs were visualized and characterized using light and scanning electron microscopy.
Main Results:
- The study successfully established a reconstructed keloid model (RKM).
- Fibroblast heterogeneity within the keloid structure was assessed.
- The model allowed for visualization and characterization of keloid tissue components.
Conclusions:
- The RKM provides a valuable tool for investigating keloid fibroblast functions in a controlled environment.
- This model can facilitate drug discovery and the development of innovative therapeutic approaches.
- The RKM is suitable for research on keloid pathogenesis and related fibrotic conditions.
