The development of innovative techniques for skin tissue manipulation has significantly advanced biomedical science. Melt electrowriting (MEW) offers a promising approach for creating high-precision polymer structures. When combined with nanodiamonds (NDs) and hydrogels, these structures can be applied in biomedical technologies, such as skin models, wound dressings, and scaffold constructions. This research of Xixi Wu focuses on integrating fluorescent nanodiamonds (FNDs) and NDs into MEW polymer scaffolds to enhance their mechanical, biological, and functional properties. Furthermore, applications such as in vitro skin models and evaluation platforms for clinical products are explored.
Chapter 1 introduced techniques for skin tissue manipulation, highlighting the versatility of MEW in fabricating skin models.
Chapter 2 discussed the integration of biocompatible fluorescent nanodiamonds into polycaprolactone (PCL), the gold standard material in MEW. These FND-integrated scaffolds (PCL-FNDs) demonstrated improved tensile modulus and doubled cell proliferation. The presence of FNDs also slowed hydrolytic degradation and enabled real-time monitoring of scaffold degradation due to their fluorescent properties. These results showcase the added value of FNDs in enhancing the mechanical properties and functionality of polymer structures.
In Chapter 3, PLA/ND scaffolds were developed and coated with quaternized β-chitin (QβC). The NDs acted as fillers and bioactive components, enhancing thermal stability, cell proliferation, and inhibiting bacterial growth. This multifunctional wound dressing supports cell adhesion and extracellular matrix remodeling, highlighting its potential in wound healing applications.
Chapter 4 focused on the development of three-dimensional skin models. MEW scaffolds combined with GelMA hydrogel provided optimal support for reconstructing the epidermis and dermis. Variations in porosity and pore sizes optimized cell distribution and extracellular matrix deposition, creating a platform for toxicity testing and fundamental biological research.
Chapter 5 demonstrated the usability of MEW scaffolds in full-thickness skin equivalents (FTSEs) for testing UVA damage and the effectiveness of antioxidants such as tea polyphenols. Innovative techniques like T1 relaxometry allowed the formation of free radicals to be tracked at the cellular level.
This research highlights the potential of nanodiamonds and MEW polymer structures in biomedical applications. The enhanced properties of the scaffolds and the successful development of in vitro skin models provide a sustainable alternative to animal testing. These advancements open new possibilities for regenerative medicine and clinical research.
