Date of Award

1-20-2022

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Department

Applied Science

First Advisor

Alexandru Biris

Abstract

Massive skin loss, over 20% of the total body surface area, is challenging to heal (Rowan et al. 2015). Ideally, autologous skin grafts have the ability to support complete skin reconstruction. However, skin grafting faces major limitations, such as shortage of donor sites and secondary injury. Alternatively, advanced materials can be used to produce skin constructs that could potentially serve as skin substitutes (Stanton and Billmire 2002). Herein, we used two polymeric materials: graphene and polyurethane (PU) to produce films that support skin cells in their growth and maturation. The surface properties of these materials were modified to enhance their biocompatibility and support of cell bioactivity. Graphene was oxygen-functionalized into low- and high-oxygen graphene, while polyurethane’s surface was plasma-treated with a mixture of oxygen and nitrogen gas. Using characterization techniques, including atomic force microscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), x-ray spectroscopy, and sessile drop method, we showed physical and chemical changes in these biomaterials in response to their surface modifications. The BJ skin fibroblasts showed good viability, enhanced cell adhesion, maturation, and production of collagen-1 (COL-1) on graphene films. Using SEM, confocal microscopy, and lactate dehydrogenase assay, we showed good viability and maturation of skin cells (keratinocytes and fibroblasts) on PU films. In addition, PU films were able to support keratinocytes and fibroblasts mature and differentiate into specialized skin cells in both the monoculture and co-culture systems. Based on our preliminary but promising results, we concluded that graphene and polyurethane have potential to be integrated into complex systems for skin regeneration.

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