Living epithelial-mesenchymal compounds formed in vitro suitable for autografting

Three different, human epithelial-mesenchymal compounds (EMC) were generated in vitro for prospective grafting in epithelial defects. All compounds consisted of a fibroblast-populated collagen lattice as a mesenchymal component seeded with different types of cultured epithelial cells isolated from biopsies of healthy skin, oral mucosa and respiratory mucosa. Maturation of the epithelial cells was enabled by the presence of a high calcium concentration (1.8 mM) when cultures were lifted to the air-liquid interface. Light and electron microscopy revealed moderate differentiation of the multilayered epithelium in all compounds as well as basement membrane development at the epithelial-mesenchymal junction after 2-3 weeks. A coherent, tissue-like consistency of the collagen lattice and the presence of a basement membrane preventing detachment of the epithelium permitted easy handling and even loose suturing of the compounds produced.