Artificial skin may reduce need for grafts

June 27, 2007 | Source: New Scientist news service

A long-lasting “living skin” that is “fully and consistently integrated into the human body” has shown promising results in early clinical trials.

Intercytex’s ICX-SKN mimics the process of natural wound healing. It is made up of a matrix of fibrin, a protein found in healing wounds. Fibroblasts are integrated into the matrix, which can be implanted into the wound, where it integrates with the patient’s own skin, closing the wound.