Utilizing Stem Cells to Address Skin Tissue Immune Rejection
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.58445/rars.701Keywords:
regenerative medicine, skin tissue engineering, wound healing, skin, skin transplants, immune system, immune rejection, stem cells, biomaterials, stem cell scaffoldsAbstract
The skin of the human body comprises three distinct layers — the epidermis, dermis, and hypodermis — each filled with diverse cells and structures vital for protection and temperature regulation. Acting as a shield against external elements, the skin is an integral part of the innate immune system. However, its protective nature also makes the skin highly immunogenic. As a result, traditional skin transplantation methods are complex procedures that have high risks of rejection and can increase susceptibility to infections. These challenges are further amplified by the difficulty in finding and verifying compatible transplants.
In recent years, advances in stem cell research and crafting artificial skin substitutes have shown promising results in wound healing (without the risks of immune rejection). Stem cells possess the unique ability to differentiate into various cell types and are classified based on their potency. By incorporating stem cells into biomaterial polymers, researchers can develop effective skin substitutes, allowing for promising treatment options for patients. This article will review what the skin is, how immune rejection occurs, and what recent advances in stem cells can help patients in the near future.
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