In Vitro Angiogenic Behavior of HUVECs on Biomimetic SF/SA Composite Scaffolds

The 60Fc and 70Fc SF/SA blend scaffolds were prepared to mimic the functions of the native ECM for skin regeneration. Human Umbilical Vein Endothelial Cells (HUVECs) were used to examine the cell cytotoxicity, adhesion, growth factors secretion and the gene expression of associated angiogenic factors. Cell proliferation, adhesion and live-dead analyses showed that HUVECs could better attach, grow, and proliferate on the 70Fc scaffolds compared with 60Fc scaffolds and unmodified controls. Furthermore, the 70Fc scaffolds showed higher levels of specific angiogenic proteins and genes expression as well. This study suggests that the involvement of higher composition of SF (about 70%) than that of SA on the blended scaffolds could be advantageous as it is more suitable to promote angiogenesis, which is potential for vascularization during skin repair.