THE APPLIED ANATOMY OF HUMAN SKIN: A MODEL FOR REGENERATION

ABSTRACT Autologous keratinocyte cultures and combinations of scaffolds, different cell types, solutions of macromolecules, or growth factors have contributed to the resurfacing of burns and large wounds. There are, however, significant limitations with these therapies. No tissue-engineered substitute can fully replace the split-thickness skin graft for permanent coverage of full-thickness skin loss in one step, and none contain a functional vascular plexus. Current research characterizes skin as more than a barrier with sensory function, but as an intricate biological factory participating in cell signaling, metabolism, and protein synthesis, and as a vital component of the nervous, immune and endocrine systems. This paper provides a comprehensive review of the structure and function of skin, highlighting the importance of regenerating an organ that will function physiologically.