Stem Cell Applications in Wound Healing
Summary
Stem cell therapies have emerged as a transformative approach to enhance tissue repair in both acute and chronic wounds. Central to this strategy are mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), notably those derived from adipose tissue, which contribute to healing through multiple mechanisms. These include differentiation into dermal fibroblasts, endothelial cells and keratinocytes, secretion of growth factors and cytokines that modulate inflammation, and promotion of neovascularisation and extracellular matrix deposition. Advances in delivery methods—ranging from injectable hydrogels to three-dimensional scaffolds—have improved cell survival, retention and functional integration at wound sites. Such innovations are particularly relevant for diabetic ulcers, radiation-induced lesions and non-healing chronic wounds, where standard treatments often fail. The global burden of refractory wounds, aggravated by ageing populations and rising diabetes prevalence, underscores the practical importance of stem cell–based interventions. Ongoing research seeks to refine cell sourcing, enhance paracrine activity and ensure scalable manufacturing to accelerate clinical translation and broaden therapeutic accessibility.
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Stem Cell Applications in Wound Healing publication trend
The graph below shows the total number of articles in stem cell applications in wound healing across all publications each year (not limited to Nature Index journals).
Technical terms
Mesenchymal stem cell (MSC): A multipotent stromal cell capable of differentiating into bone, cartilage and adipose lineages and modulating immune responses.
Adipose-derived stem cell (ADSC): A type of MSC isolated from fatty tissue, valued for ease of harvest, high yield and potent paracrine activity.
Stromal vascular fraction (SVF): A heterogeneous mix of stem and progenitor cells, endothelial cells and immune cells obtained from adipose tissue via enzymatic digestion.
Extracellular matrix (ECM): A dynamic network of proteins, glycoproteins and proteoglycans that provides structural support and biochemical signals to resident and transplanted cells.
Neovascularisation: The process by which new blood vessels form from existing vasculature, essential for oxygen and nutrient delivery during tissue repair.
References
- Long-term follow-up and exploration of the mechanism of stromal vascular fraction gel in chronic wounds. Stem Cell Research & Therapy (2023).
- Application of 3D-printed tissue-engineered skin substitute using innovative biomaterial loaded with human adipose-derived stem cells in wound healing. International Journal of Bioprinting (2023).
- Using biomaterials to improve mesenchymal stem cell therapies for chronic, nonhealing wounds. Bioengineering & Translational Medicine (2023).
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