Improved Wound Healing of Diabetic Foot Ulcers Using Human Placenta-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Gelatin Electrospun Nanofibrous Scaffolds Plus a Platelet-Rich Plasma Gel: A Randomized Clinical Trial Publisher Pubmed



Meamar R¹ ; Ghasemimobarakeh L² ; Norouzi MR² ; Siavash M³ ; Hamblin MR⁴ ; Fesharaki M¹
Source: International Immunopharmacology Published:2021

Abstract

Aim: The effectiveness of nanofibers containing human placenta-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hPDMSCs) plus platelet-rich plasma (PRP) for healing of diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) was investigated. Methods: hPDMSCs were isolated from human donor placentas, and cultured in electrospun gelatin nanofibrous scaffolds (GNS). Twenty-eight patients with DFUs were randomized into three groups in a 12-week trial: (A) Treated with hPDMSCs; (B) Treated with hPDMSCs after coating the ulcer with PRP gel; (C) Control group received standard wound care. Wound area and pain free walking distance were measured every 2 weeks. Results: Flow cytometry showed the expression of mesenchymal markers. SEM images and DAPI staining indicated significantly higher levels of hPDMSC proliferation on GNS after 3 and 7 days of culture. The MTS assay showed a significant increase in proliferation on GNS, compared to controls. Wound size reduction was 66% in group A, 71% in group B, and 36% in control group C. A significant difference in wound closure and pain-free walking distance was observed between groups A and B, compared to control group C (p < 0.05), but no difference between groups A and B. Biopsy of the implanted tissue showed the development of new capillary formation in groups A and B. Conclusion: Implantation of hPDMSCs in GNS accelerated wound healing and improved clinical parameters in DFU patients. © 2021