When was artificial skin invented

The primary current application of artificial skin is for the treatment of skin loss or damage on burn patients. Alternatively however, artificial skin is now being used in some places to treat patients with skin diseases, such as diabetic foot ulcers, and severe scarring [1].

Labs have also developed in vitro skin samples for the use of cosmetic and medical testing. This provides a cheaper and more ethical approach for testing surface reactions to topical treatments [1].

The most important goals of current artificial skin technologies are to provide protection from infection, dehydration, and protein loss after severe skin loss or damage. Each year, over 2 million people in the United States are treated for burns [2]. Advances in artificial skin and skin grafting techniques have drastically improved the chances of survival for burn patients [2].

Infection and dehydration are two of the most dangerous conditions imposed by skin loss. After an accident, irreparably damaged skin layers must be removed to prevent bacterial growth. Artificial skin materials allow the area to be sealed quickly to prevent fluid loss and bacteria from entering through the wound. Integra is a brand of artificial skin commonly used in medical facilities today. Human skin is comprised of two primary layers, the dermis and the epidermis.

A diagram of a typical section of human skin is shown here. The epidermis is comprised of keratinocytes of varying levels of differentiation. As can be seen in the figure, the epidermis contains no blood vessels meaning transport of nutrients to the epidermis occurs from the dermis below [2].

While the primary role of the epidermis is to provide an outer protective layer, the dermis contains several structures important to skin function. Hair follicles, sweat and oil glands, and nerves are all found within the dermis [2]. Additionally, epithelial keratinocytes originate from within this layer.

Current artificial skin techniques for burn treatment typically provide a scaffolding to promote regeneration of the dermis. An autograft is then performed to replace the epidermis. Alternatively, artificial skin has been made to replace both layers of the skin as in the case of certain small wound and foot ulcer treatments.

Skin grafts are required for patients with skin damage that is too significant for self-repair. As stated before, one of the primary requirements for artificial skin is for the treatment of severe burn victims.

There are three levels of burns; 1st, 2nd, and 3rd degree burns. A first degree burn only affects the epidermis whereas a second degree burn extends downward into the dermis.

Third degree burns go through the epidermis, dermis, and the hypodermis. In either of these scenarios a skin graft will most likely be required for the area to heal. Skin grafts are also often done on patients with ulcers, skin loss from cancer removal, and plastic surgery [1]. US Patent No. Born April 14, Related Inductees. Previous Slide Next Slide. Find an Inductee. No one had yet found a way of building skin that could absorb and maintain moisture.

Weaving together their collective expertise in engineered polymers and biology, the two teamed up to create the first artificial skin. The synthetic layer protects the skin from bacteria and infection and keeps the moisture in, while the organic layer acts as a cornerstone on which new healthy skin cells can grow.

In February he was recognized as one of the highest achievers in his field when the National Inventors Hall of Fame announced it would be inducting him at their ceremony this May. There was a lot going on outside the house, but nothing could stop me from finding out what was going on in my environment. Comments: 1. Click here to cancel reply.