Plasma-rich fibrin gel and adipose-derived allogeneic mesenchymal stem cells: innovation in the treatment of second-degree deep burn wound; characterization and in-vivo study.

Abstract

A biocompatible and readily available wound dressing for emergencies has been shown to be more cost-effective, while also reducing the risk of immune system-mediated reactions. In this project, we investigated the use of a fresh blood-derived matrix as a wound dressing, based on a 3D drug-loaded Plasma-rich Fibrin (PRF) scaffold, to support the transplantation of autologous stem cells for regenerating skin tissues lost due to burns. PRF scaffold was prepared from venous blood, and adipose tissue-derived stem cells (ADSCs) were isolated from the visceral fat tissue of rats. Following in vitro analysis, PRF gel and ADSCs were transplanted onto second-degree deep burn wounds on the backs of rats. Histopathological analysis and wound size measurements were conducted on days 5, 10, 15, and 21. The findings revealed that PRF gel, as a cyto-compatible scaffold with the potential for antibacterial drug release (sustained for up to 3 days, with up to 89.7% release), significantly enhanced the healing process in the treatment group. On day 15, a reduced wound size, mature skin cells, and well-organized, thicker collagen fibers were observed in the histopathology of the PRF-treated groups, which scored an average of (2.83  ±  0.04) out of 3 for overall histopathological parameters. The greatest wound contraction was seen in the scaffold-treated groups (5.32  ±   0.61 mm²), compared with the control group (7.96 ±  0.82 mm²) (p < 0.05). PRF scaffold and ADSCs have the potential to serve as an effective biological wound dressing for burn wounds, accelerating the healing process and offering an alternative to traditional skin grafting.