2 Research project available:
1- Stromal Cell Interactions with Skin cancer
Working with 3-dimensional skin cultures since 2010 and examining the role of adipose – derived stromal cells (ADSCs) in wound healing. Results indicate that adding ADSCs or their conditioned media to the 3-dimensional skin raft culture results in faster reepithelialization after injury. Specific factors identified in the conditioned media accelerate cell migration. Such factors have also been associated with the aggressiveness of tumors. These factors will now be examined in a patient-derived 3-D tumor model.
2- Role of Matrix Metalloproteinases in Re-epithelialization
Project Summary
Reepithelialization of the skin is a complex process and its delay in wound healing can cause a number of problems including infection, increased area of injury, scarring, pain, and loss of function. The long-term goal of this proposal is to develop effective therapies that accelerate reepithelialization. Reepithelialization involves cell migration as an initial feature of the healing process. This process involves signaling by various soluble mediators as well as cell- cell and cell – extracellular matrix interactions. We hypothesize that matrix metalloproteinases are highly involved in the process of reepithelialization. We also hypothesize that the addition of adipose-derived mesenchymal cells from noninjured tissues will enhance this repair process by affecting matrix metalloproteinases. These hypotheses have been tested in monolayer and 3-D cultures. Confirmation will be obtained in animal and human studies.
Contact Information
Sherry S. Collawn
scollawn@uabmc.edu
205-934-3312
