Use of mesenchymal stem cells for cutaneous repair and skin substitute elaboration

Human mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are a heterogeneous population of fibroblast-like cells, which are present in different locations, including bone marrow, adipose tissue, extra-foetal tissues, gingiva and dermis. MSCs, which present multipotency capacities, important expansive potential and immunotolerance properties, remain an attractive tool for tissue repair and regenerative medicine. Currently, several studies and clinical trials highlight the use of MSCs in cutaneous repair underlining that their effects are essentially due to the numerous factors that they release. MSCs are also used in skin substitute development. In this study, we will first discuss the different sources of MSCs actually available. We will then present results showing that bone marrow-derived MSCs prepared according to Good Manufacturing Practices and included in a dermal equivalent are able to promote appropriate epidermis growth and differentiation. These data demonstrate that bone marrow-derived MSCs represent a satisfactory alternative to dermal fibroblasts in order to develop skin substitute. In addition, MSCs could provide a useful alternative to sustain epidermis development and to promote wound healing.