Iron-Based Metal-Organic Framework MIL-100(Fe) Regulates Keloid Scarring in a Humanized Keloid Model

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Dermatology
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Keloids are characterized by excessive collagen deposition and persistent inflammation, leading to high morbidity and recurrence.
• Current keloid treatments are limited and often ineffective, necessitating novel therapeutic approaches.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize and characterize MIL-100(Fe), a metal-organic framework, for potential therapeutic application in keloid treatment.
• To evaluate the in vitro and in vivo efficacy of MIL-100(Fe) in reducing keloid fibroblast activity and fibrosis.

Main Methods:

• MIL-100(Fe) was synthesized using a microwave-assisted hydrothermal method.
• In vitro studies assessed human keloid fibroblast viability, cellular uptake, migration, and protein expression.
• In vivo studies utilized a humanized keloid mouse model to evaluate the therapeutic effects of intralesional MIL-100(Fe) injections.

Main Results:

• MIL-100(Fe) demonstrated nanoscale particle size and was robustly taken up by keloid fibroblasts with minimal toxicity.
• MIL-100(Fe) significantly reduced fibroblast migration and downregulated key fibrosis-associated proteins, including collagen I, collagen III, and TGF-β1.
• In vivo, MIL-100(Fe) treatment reduced fibrous tissue volume, fibroblast density, and collagen fiber area in a keloid mouse model.

Conclusions:

• MIL-100(Fe) selectively targets the TGF-β/SMAD pathway, effectively reducing collagen deposition and fibrosis.
• These findings highlight MIL-100(Fe) as a promising therapeutic nanoplatform for keloid treatment.