3D Scaffold and Stem Cell Based Bioengineered Skin for Treatment of Cutaneous Vesicant Injury

In this Phase II project Nomadics will novate our research to a spin-out company Nico Technologies. Nomadics will remain a subcontractor during this transition. The team proposes a new treatment for injuries from mustard gas based on biodegradable inverted colloidal crystal scaffolds impregnated with stem cells. Phase I results demonstrated excellent performance of these scaffolds for differentiation of murine embryonic stem cells into skin cell lines. By the end of Phase II, we expect to have enhanced scaffold manufacturing and performed in-vitro optimization of ESC differentiation. We will test cell-free scaffolds for tissue regeneration and develop a preservation protocol. Mice will be tested at the University of Texas Medical Branch for the treatment of mustard gas injuries. The team offers a unique technology proven to be an exceptionally convenient media for stem cell differentiation. A novelty of this approach to vesicant injury treatment is its use of three stem-cell sources: embryonic stem cells, adult stem cells from discarded tissue, and recruitment of the patient’s own stem cells by growth-factor-loaded scaffolds. Our team has a long history of successful collaborative projects. Team member J. Cortiella’s experience with treatment of military burn victims brings knowledge of the real-life problems in combat situations.