Previous studies demonstrated, that cultured epithelial autografts (CEA) can be isolated
and skin cell sprays can be produced for application on different types of wounds.
The purpose of the present study was to determine which cell types can be isolated
from the human scalp and whether these cells can be used for spray transplantation.
Outer root sheath cells (ORS), keratinocytes, melanocytes, dermal papilla cells (DP),
and dermal sheath cells (DSC) were isolated from human scalp tissue. Isolated cells
were characterized, expanded and sprayed in an in vitro model. Growth behaviour, morphology
and cell counts were compared with non-sprayed cells.
With acceptable time, equipment and laboratory personnel a sufficient amount of keratinocytes,
ORS, melanocytes, DP cells and DSC cells could be achieved. The cells are sufficient
for application as a cell spray. Cells, positive for Integrin alpha6, Cytokeratin
19, CD73 and CD105 were identified within the cultures.
Human scalp is suitable to gain epidermal and dermal cells for the development of
therapeutic cell spray transplantation. Further studies have to determine, whether
these cells can be combined to produce wound specific skin substitutes.