Basic fibroblast growth factor combined with extracellular matrix-inspired mimetic systems for effective skin regeneration and wound healing

It was found that extracellular matrix (ECM) has a key function in organizing the in vivo signaling of growth factors (GFs) by releasing them in an extremely controlled spatiotemporal manner as well as by modulation of their intracellular signaling. Therefore, ECM has inspired researchers to design and develop effective GF delivery systems. Among various GFs, basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), one of the main GFs, via integration into the different designs of ECM-based mimetic systems, has sparked immense interest toward skin bioengineering through dramatic promotion of re-epithelialization, neovascularization, and acceleration of the skin regeneration and wound healing. This review discusses current advances in bFGF-loaded ECM-mimetic delivery systems for wound healing enhancement, focusing on scaffolds, hydrogels, and artificial dermis. A general overview of the ECM as a regulator of GF signalling as well as the roles of bFGF in wound healing is also provided. It is speculated that bFGF-integrated ECM mimetic delivery systems can impact the future clinical setting of skin tissue regeneration.