Innovative Therapies in Wound Healing

Abstract

Background: Apligraf is a bioengineered skin product composed of neonatal fibroblasts and keratinocytes. The FDA has approved Apligraf for the treatment of chronic venous ulcers and diabetic ulcers. Objective: We review the development of bioengineered skin, examine the cellular activities of various growth factors that may facilitate wound healing, and discuss the results of clinical trials with a particular construct, Apligraf, as proof of principle. Conclusion: Bioengineered skin acts as a “smart” delivery system for growth factors and other stimulatory substances. Not only does it present a novel treatment for chronic and diabetic ulcers, but it could also be considered for application to other types of acute wounds.