Drug-induced senescence of donor dermal fibroblasts enhances revascularization and graft success in skin transplantation

Abstract

Full-thickness skin grafts often face challenges related to inefficient vascularization in clinical settings. Senescent cells, known for secreting various growth factors, have demonstrated excellent effects on angiogenesis. In this study, we induced senescence in a subset of fibroblasts in the donor dermis by co-administering trametinib and palbociclib before harvesting the skin grafts for transplantation. Grafts containing these senescent fibroblasts showed significant promotion of vascularization when surgically transplanted into recipient animals. This approach resulted in a 100% survival rate of the transplanted skin. Additionally, the senescent fibroblasts optimized wound healing and matrix remodeling, subsequently reducing inflammation and scar hyperplasia. Importantly, these senescent fibroblasts disappeared 14 days post-grafting, preventing excessive accumulation of senescent cells. Overall, our study indicates that inducing senescence in the donor dermis prior to transplantation is an effective strategy to enhance vascularization and increase the success rate of skin grafting.