Development of a novel therapy based on Investigation of Wound Healing
Summary
The purpose and scope of this research is to develop a novel therapy based on investigation of wound healing. The cell component of a healing wound consists of many cell types and the environment in which these cells grow is important to the rate and quality of healing which can be influenced by the type of dressing used. The most commonly used dressings are traditional gauze-type dressings. In many cases these dressings may adhere to the wound surface, and subsequently removal is often traumatic, causing pain and tissue re-injury. Many studies into wound healing use simple, two dimension animal cell culture as a model system.
Here it is proposed that a three-dimensional animal cell culture model for the study of wound healing activity in which the factors important in wound healing may be investigated. The artifical epidermis and dermis will be fabricated by culturing human keratinocytes and fibroblasts. In addition, collagen lattice technology will be used.
It is envisaged that it will be possible to develop a dressing material which is based on a 3D lattice structure that allows for population by human dermal fibroblasts that will differentiate as normal and lead to the formation of skin tissue. Also, the scientific information generated will facilitate the promotion of the current product range by the co-sponsoring company.
The Research Team
Dr. James Brennan Principal Researcher Department of Science, IT, Sligo.
Mr. Thomas Patten Research Student Department of Science, IT Sligo.
Project Details
Aims and Objectives of the proposed programme of research.
The development of 3-D animal cell culture model which can be manipulated to mimic a wound. A range of tests will be developed which will serve to investigate the factors which are important in wound healing. Materials from the collaborating company’s wound care products, and other potential wound healing agents will then be introduced into the model system, and their effects measured. Further characterisation of all wound- care materials used will serve to identify the active agent in each case, and the efficacy of the active will be demonstrated using the model system.