Aziz Ghahary
University Of British Columbia, Canada
Title: A novel wound dressings with anti-scarring properties
Biography
Biography: Aziz Ghahary
Abstract
Wound healing outcome is regulated by a fine balance between deposition and degradation of extracellular matrix (ECM). Over healing process in skin is mediated by exaggerated ECM deposition and abnormalities in ECM degradation. Current treatment modalities for prevention of burn hypertrophic scarring has limited efficacy which raised a great need for innovation within wound care industry. Moving toward novel approaches to prevent post burn hypertrophic scarring, we identified the anti-scarring properties of Kynurenine (Kyn), a naturally occurring small molecule generated from tryptophan degradation. Although daily application of Kyn containing cream prevents scarring in a rabbit ear model, an effective wound dressing, slowly releasing controlled doses of Kyn, will be more beneficial for Kyn delivery to extensive burns where the dressings get changed every 4-5 days. This study aims to develop a new generation of wound dressings having anti-scarring properties.
Methods: The Effect of Kyn treatment on the expression of different ECM components, collagen type-I, fibronectin and MMP1 and 3 was evaluated. Wound dressings were manufactured by incorporating Kyn into PVA/PLGA nanofibers using electrospinning process. Drug release profile was determined by incubating the electrospun mats in PBS. The anti-scarring properties of these nanofibrous wound dressings were evaluated in vitro and in vivo.
Results: In vitro studies showed that while Kyn doesn’t have any adverse effect on the dermal cells’ viability, it significantly decreases the expression of collagen type-I and fibronectin and increases the expression of MMP1, which is a collagenase, and MMP3. Whereas the Kyn-loaded PVA demonstrated immediate and complete drug release of the drug, addition of PLGA envelop via dip-coating significantly reduced the burst release, due to added tortuosity and increased hydrophobicity of the shell. In vivo studies showed that wound treatment with Kyn-loaded dressings significantly improves the wound healing outcome and eliminates evidence of scarring in the rat excisional wounds.
Conclusions: Anti-fibrotic effects of Kyn are mediated by increasing the expression of MMPs and reducing the production of ECM components in vitro and in vivo. This study sets the stage for development of a new generation of wound dressings facilitating the controlled and prolonged release of this anti-scarring drug.
Applicability of research to practice: These wound dressings can improve/prevent fibrotic conditions developed upon burn, trauma and surgical procedures without compromising the health of the patient.