Laminin-functionalized poly-d,l-lactic acid scaffolds were produced. Following this, mesenchymal stem cells and keratinocytes were seeded on biomaterials for the in vivo experiments, where the biomaterials with or without cells were implanted. The analysis is comprised of the visual aspect and mean size of the lesion plus the histology and gene expression. The results showed that the cells occupied all the structure of the scaffolds in all the groups. After nine days of in vivo experiments, the defect size did not show statistical difference among the groups, although the groups with the poly-d,l-lactic acid/Lam biomaterial had the lowest lesion size and presented the best visual aspect of the wound. Gene expression analysis showed considerable increase of tumor growth factor beta 1 expression, increased vascular endothelial growth factor and balance of the BAX/Bcl-2 ratio when compared to the lesion group. Histological analysis showed well-formed tissue in the groups where the biomaterials and biomaterials plus cells were used. In some animals, in which biomaterials and cells were used, the epidermis was formed throughout the length of the wound. In conclusion, these biomaterials were found to be capable of providing support for the growth of cells and stimulated the healing of the skin, which was improved by the use of cells.
Keywords: Stem cells; electrospinning; keratinocytes; skin substitute; tissue engineering.