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Cultured epithelial autografts: diving from surgery into matrix biology

Pediatric Surgery International volume 12, pages 478–483 (1997)Cite this article

Abstract

Cultured epithelial autografts offer an exciting approach to cover extensive skin wounds. The main problem of this method is mechanical instability during the first weeks after grafting. There is evidence that the shortcomings of autografting cultured keratinocytes result from the lack of a mature and functional dermo-epidermal junction. This article summarizes the current knowledge regarding thede novo formation of the dermo-epidermal junction and the dynamics of “take” and stabilization of cultured epithelial autografts. Future strategies are discussed of how to improve and accelerate the process conferring definitive stabilization of cultured epithelial autografts including the potential therapeutic use of transglutaminase as well as cocultivation of a dermo-epidermal equivalent in order to facilitate a permanent skin relacement.

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Author information

Affiliations

  1. Department of Dermatology, University of Münster, Von-Esmarch-Strasse 56, D-48149, Münster, Germany

    M. Raghunath

  2. Department of Surgery, Pediatric Burn Center, University Children's Hospital, Steinwiesstraße 75, CH-8032, Zurich, Switzerland

    M. Meuli

Authors
  1. M. Raghunath
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  2. M. Meuli
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Raghunath, M., Meuli, M. Cultured epithelial autografts: diving from surgery into matrix biology. Pediatr Surg Int 12, 478–483 (1997). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01258706

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01258706

Key words

  • Skin
  • Burn
  • Keratinocyte
  • Transglutaminase
  • Wound
  • Cultured epithelial autografts