J. Mater. Sci. Technol. ›› 2025, Vol. 208: 38-52.DOI: 10.1016/j.jmst.2024.04.046

• Research Article • Previous Articles     Next Articles

3D-printed biomimetic scaffold with liposome-encapsulated SB431542 promotes scarless wound healing

Xiaogang Liua,b,c,1, Zhanpeng Lia,b,c,1, Lijuan Liua,b,c,1, Yanke Hua,b,c, Yahui Xionga,b,c, Yangzhou Lua,b,c, Fan Biea,b,c, Shuying Chena,b,c, Fei Zhoua,b,c, Yingbin Xua,b,c, Shaohai Qia,b,c,*, Lei Chena,b,c,*   

  1. aDepartment of Burn, Wound Repair & Reconstruction, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China;
    bGuangdong Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center of Burn and Wound Accurate Diagnosis and Treatment Key Technology and Series of Products, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China;
    cInstitute of Precision Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
  • Received:2023-12-29 Revised:2024-03-24 Accepted:2024-04-20 Published:2025-02-10 Online:2024-05-15
  • Contact: * E-mail addresses: qishh@mail.sysu.edu.cn (S. Qi), chenlei8@mail.sysu.edu.cn (L. Chen).
  • About author:1 These authors contributed equally to this work.

Abstract: Abnormal wound scarring often leads to functional impairments and cosmetic deformities, primarily driven by the prolonged activation of the TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway. Addressing this challenge, we developed a biomimetic scaffold aimed at facilitating rapid and scarless wound healing. This highly integrated 3D-printed dermal scaffold comprised modified recombinant human type III collagen (rhCOLIII-MA), gelatin methacrylate (GelMA), and liposomes encapsulating SB431542 to target TGF-β1 (Lip@SB). The rhCOLIII-MA/GelMA (CG) scaffold retained inherent biomaterial characteristics, exhibited tailored physicochemical properties, and demonstrated favorable biocompatibility. Moreover, the Lip@SB-loaded CG scaffold (CGL) effectively promoted in vitro wound healing, while enabling controlled release of SB431542 to inhibit pathological collagen deposition. In a full-thickness skin defect rat model, the CGL dermal scaffold combined with split-thickness skin graft (STSG) minimized scar contraction, stimulated functional neovascularization, and enhanced graft aesthetics comparable to normal skin. Remarkably, the performance of the CGL scaffold surpassed that of commercially available anti-scarring alternatives. This innovative strategy presents a straightforward approach toward scarless skin regeneration and holds promise in alleviating the prolonged, painful postoperative rehabilitation.

Key words: 3D-printed biomimetic scaffold, Liposome, Scarless wound healing, Split-thickness skin graft, Regenerative medicine