Keratinocytes-Hair Follicle Bulge Stem Cells-Fibroblasts Co-Cultures on a Tri-Layer Skin Equivalent Derived from Gelatin/PEG Methacrylate Nanofibers

The study focused on developing a full-thickness skin equivalent model using a novel hydrogel called GelMet, created by blending gelatin and PEG methacrylate. Three types of electrospun membranes were fabricated with GelMet concentrations of 14, 17, and 20 wt%, which successfully supported the culture of keratinocytes, hair follicle bulge stem cells (HFBSCs), and fibroblasts, respectively, forming a tri-layered construct. The GelMet scaffolds demonstrated good mechanical properties, dimensional stability, and the ability to support cell growth in vitro, indicating their potential application in skin tissue engineering. The incorporation of HFBSCs was expected to enhance the cell content of the skin substitute without needing multiple cell populations.