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 supported the growth of keratinocytes, hair follicle bulge stem cells (HFBSCs), and fibroblasts, respectively, forming a tri-layered construct. The GelMet scaffolds were designed to mimic the structural gradation of the collagen matrix in native skin, offering good mechanical properties and dimensional stability. The incorporation of HFBSCs was expected to enhance the cell content of the skin substitute without needing multiple cell populations, indicating significant potential for skin tissue engineering applications.