Abstract

The wound healing process consists of a progression of phases, such as homeostasis, inflammation, proliferation, and remodeling. Consequently, any disruption in one of these phases can result in delayed wound healing. Indeed, delayed wound healing ultimately leads to the development of chronic wounds. Notably, recent insights suggest that wound healing phases are not distinct; instead, they overlap. Consequently, therapeutic approaches that simultaneously target all four phases hold promise for promoting the healing of chronic wounds.

STRATEGY

Being a mixture of anti-inflammatory and tropic factors, secretome may act by influencing all wound healing phases simultaneously. We are developing polymer-based delivery devices to enhance the efficacy of secretome-based therapy. These devices include hydrogel sponges of hyaluronic acid integrated with secretome, which have recently undegone in vivo proof-of-concept of efficacy. Additionally, we are working on waterbornes electrospun patches for the release of secretome and extracellular vesicles.

IMPACT

Given the aging population and the continued global threat of diabetes and obesity, it is expected that chronic wounds will continue to pose substantial clinical, social, and economic issues. Despite the variety of experimental wound healing treatments in the pipelines, only three have received approval from the FDA. Nonetheless, approximately 50% of chronic skin wounds still remain unresponsive to these treatments, highlighting the urgent need for innovative therapeutic approaches.

Joint project Fondazione Ri.MED/IRCCS ISMETT

Pipeline