Peramo A., Marcelo C.L., Goldstein S.A., Martin D.C.
University of Michigan, US
Keywords: bioartificial, mucosa, skin
The use of medical devices passing through the skin has continued to rise. In conjunction with an increased use of catheterization and a general tendency toward minimally invasive procedures in medicine, the need for rapid and reproducible testing methods to evaluate the interfaces between devices and internal tissues and organs has dramatically increased. We have developed an in vitro culture system composed of organotypic human skin explants interfaced with titanium rods or stainless steel fixator pins. The use of this interface provides a model to evaluate strategies for creating a stable, long-term connection with living skin and chronic percutaneous devices. Our hypothesis is that the delivery of specific biomaterials at this interface will create a dynamic, slowly flowing matrix for skin biointegration, local administration of drugs or antimicrobials. We define this concept as the generation of an artificial mucosa, because it mimics the situation of several epithelial tissues where antimicrobial peptides and mucins are constantly extruded. A particular example is the periodontal junction between the tooth and the junctional epithelium.
Journal: TechConnect Briefs
Volume: 2, Nanotechnology 2009: Life Sciences, Medicine, Diagnostics, Bio Materials and Composites
Published: May 3, 2009
Pages: 298 - 301
Industry sectors: Advanced Materials & Manufacturing | Medical & Biotech
Topic: Biomaterials
ISBN: 978-1-4398-1783-4