Palladium Porphyrin-Modified Fibrin Hydrogel for Oxygen Sensing in Engineered Skin Tissue Applications

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Regenerative Medicine
• Biosensor Technology

Background:

• Oxygen levels are critical for cellular metabolism, survival, and tissue regeneration in engineered tissues.
• Accurate, real-time oxygen monitoring is essential for optimizing skin-engineered constructs for research and therapy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and integrate a chemically stable, fluorescence-based oxygen biosensor into fibrin-based dermal matrices for complete skin equivalents.
• To assess the biocompatibility and functionality of the biosensor within engineered skin constructs.

Main Methods:

• Synthesis of a modified porphyrin (PdPFP-Jeff) and its covalent bonding to alginate (AlgNHS).
• Integration of the functionalized alginate into plasma-derived hydrogels forming dermal matrices for skin equivalents.
• Biocompatibility assessment using live/dead assays, H&E staining, and immunofluorescence studies.

Main Results:

• Stable incorporation of the oxygen biosensor (PdPFP-Jeff-AlgNHS) into hydrogel scaffolds without leaching.
• Demonstrated biocompatibility of the biosensor-enhanced skin equivalents with primary fibroblasts.
• Reliable real-time oxygen monitoring capabilities within the engineered dermal matrices.

Conclusions:

• The developed PdPFP-Jeff hydrogel functions as a robust biosensor for real-time oxygen monitoring in skin equivalents.
• This integration of optical sensing advances smart biomaterials for improved in vitro skin models.
• The technology holds promise for enhanced wound healing and broader regenerative medicine applications.