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Updated: Dec 11, 2025

Human Ex vivo Wound Model and Whole-Mount Staining Approach to Accurately Evaluate Skin Repair
Published on: February 17, 2021
Evaluation of MicroRNA Therapeutic Potential Using the Mouse In Vivo and Human Ex Vivo Wound Models
Xi Li1, Ning Xu Landén2,3
1Dermatology and Venereology Division, Department of Medicine Solna, Center for Molecular Medicine, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden.
Abstract:
Wound healing is a fundamental physiological process to keep the integrity of the skin; failure of wound healing leads to chronic wounds, which are a common and severe medical problem. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are gene regulators important for multiple biological functions in the skin, and they play essential roles in different phases of wound repair. Many miRNAs have been found dysregulated in human chronic wounds. Therefore, miRNAs may serve as potential therapeutic targets for wound treatment. In this chapter, we describe a step-by-step protocol about how to evaluate the therapeutic potential of a miRNA in mouse in vivo and human ex vivo wound models. The findings from these preclinical wound models will serve as a basis for further clinical trials.
Insights
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are key regulators in skin healing. This study outlines methods to test miRNA therapeutic potential for chronic wound treatment, paving the way for clinical trials.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Molecular Biology
- Regenerative Medicine
Background:
- Skin integrity relies on effective wound healing.
- Chronic wounds represent a significant unmet medical need.
- MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are critical regulators of skin biology and wound repair.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a protocol for evaluating miRNA therapeutic potential in wound healing.
- To assess miRNA efficacy in preclinical mouse and human wound models.
Main Methods:
- In vivo evaluation in mouse wound models.
- Ex vivo assessment using human skin explants.
- Step-by-step protocol for miRNA therapeutic potential assessment.
Main Results:
- Dysregulated miRNAs are implicated in human chronic wounds.
- Preclinical models provide a basis for assessing therapeutic strategies.
- The described protocol facilitates the evaluation of miRNA-based wound therapies.
Conclusions:
- MicroRNAs hold promise as therapeutic targets for chronic wound management.
- Preclinical models are essential for validating miRNA therapies before clinical application.
- This protocol supports the advancement of novel wound healing treatments.

