A Novel Sprayable Fibrinogen/Glycosaminoglycans/ Collagen-Based Bioink for Skin Wound Healing Applied by a Handheld Dual-Head Airbrush

Abstract

In the last years, different biofabrication methods have gained special attention for the production of skin substitutes that overcome the limitations of conventional skin grafting. Skin sprays represent a promising technology for treating cutaneous wounds as they can deliver both cells and biomaterials to the wound bed in a fast and easy approach, covering extensive wound surfaces. The aim of this study is to develop a novel bioink based on fibrinogen supplemented with a glycosaminoglycans (GAGs)/collagen (Col)-based matrix, containing hyaluronic acid, dermatan sulfate, chondroitin sulfate, and Col, in combination with an innovative dual-head airbrush-based spraying device. The fibrinogen/GAGs/Col-based bioink is loaded with human mesenchymal stromal cells or human dermal fibroblasts, and its physicochemical and mechanical properties are analyzed, as well as cell viability, metabolic activity, and in vitro wound healing. Finally, its skin wound healing properties are studied in an in vivo excisional wound healing murine model. The bioink forms hydrogels with satisfactory physicochemical, mechanical, and biological properties, capable of promoting wound healing and tissue regeneration in vivo with outcomes comparable to those of autografts. The novel spray system and bioink show the potential to serve as a therapeutic tool for the clinical treatment of cutaneous wounds.