Applications and Implications of Heparin and Protamine in Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine

The document from 2014 reviews the use of heparin and protamine, particularly in the form of fragmin and protamine micro/nanoparticles (F/P M/NPs), in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. It highlights the concept of drug repositioning, where existing drugs are repurposed for new therapeutic applications. F/P M/NPs have been utilized as cell carriers, cytokine immobilizers or attractants, and controlled-release systems for growth factors and cytokines, which are crucial for cell growth and differentiation. These applications have shown promise in various medical fields, including cardiovascular, dental, and dermatological medicine, to enhance cell viability, proliferation, and tissue regeneration. The document also notes the use of F/P M/NPs in combination with platelet-rich plasma (PRP) to improve neovascularization and reduce skin flap necrosis in reconstructive surgery, and their potential in dental medicine and hair reconstruction for alopecia treatment. Overall, the document concludes that F/P M/NPs have become multifunctional agents in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine, with promising applications in organ regeneration, including hair and skin.