Conectar
Despite numerous therapeutic approaches, the inhibition of hypertrophic scar formation remains a major challenge. Adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) have been shown to improve wound healing, including remodelling, in vivo. A systematic review was conducted using the electronic databases PubMed, Web of Science, Embase and Medline. The basic research question was formulated with the PICO framework. The aim of this review is to prove the role of ADSCs in the prevention of hypertrophic scar formation based on in vivo studies. Improved macroscopic outcomes with the use of ADSCs have been shown in nine of 10 studies included. Eight studies report inhibition on fibroblast activation, while all studies highlight the efficacy in promoting the extracellular matrix deposition and remodelling process. The immunomodulatory effects of ADSCs during inflammation have been demonstrated in six studies. One study each investigated the effect on adipogenesis or angiogenesis. In all studies the role of ADSCs in the prevention of hypertrophic scarring was conclusive. However, due to their heterogeneity and weighting of disparate outcomes, several investigations only converged upon distinct endpoints. Further research, preferably in pigs, is urgently required in order to assess the role of ADSCs in the prevention of hypertrophic scar.
Radiation dermatitis (RD) remains a prevalent and challenging adverse effect of radiotherapy in cancer patients, significantly impairing patient quality of life and potentially interrupting treatment regimens. In recent years, the development of biopolymer-based hydrogels has emerged as a promising strategy for preventing and managing RD. Among these, alginate and chitosan-based hydrogels have attracted considerable attention due to their excellent biocompatibility, biodegradability, and wound-healing properties. This comprehensive review highlights the therapeutic efficacy of alginate/chitosan composite hydrogels in RD management. The unique physicochemical characteristics of these hydrogels, including moisture retention, oxygen permeability, and controlled drug release capabilities, make them ideal candidates for treating radiation-induced skin injuries. Mechanistically, these hydrogels exert anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial effects while promoting re-epithelialization and collagen, which are critical in skin repair. Preclinical studies revealed significantly reduced RD severity scores and histopathological improvements following hydrogel application. Although clinical translation remains limited, initial trials showed promising outcomes in human subjects. Overall, alginate/chitosan hydrogels represent an effective system with immense potential to revolutionize RD management in oncological care.
FreshRSS 