Biochemical Methods in Production of Three-Dimensional Scaffolds from Human Skin: A Window in Aesthetic Surgery

Background: Use of matrix-derived biologic scaffolds has become a treatment of choice in several clinical issues. This study assessed biochemical methods in production of three-dimensional scaffolds from human skin.

Methods: Human skin was prepared from circumcisions, washed in phosphate buffer saline (PBS) and kept at -20ºC until use. The skin samples underwent various methods. In group A, NaCl, Triton X100 and EDTA solution were used for removal of epidermis and was subdivided to three subgroups. The solution for removal of epidermis was similar for all subgroups, but decellularization was different. Group B was subdivided into 6 subgroups, NaCl in different concentrations was used for removal of epidermis and decellularization happened using SDS in various concentrations and different time intervals. Group C was subdivided to 3 subgroups, trypsin was used for removal of epidermis and decellularization was conducted applying NaOH or SDS. Washing was performed using only PBS. In group D, decellularization was done applying SDS. Histomorphometric study was conducted to compare the groups.

Results: No fibroblast was present in A2, B2, B4, and C3 subgroups after decellularization. Histological photographs from subgroups A1 to A3 revealed several cells and collagen fibers. Dense collagen fibers in pink color were noted in all subgroups; but, epidermis was absent.

Conclusion: It was shown that 1M NaCl was the best solution for removal of epidermis, 0.5% SDS for 2 h was the most effective solution for decellularization and PBS was the best solution for washing, while the solutions are easily available and cost-effective.