Inherent properties

Biology: Inherent properties

Suitability of placental tissues for wound care and surgical applications: inherent properties

Research has demonstrated that placental tissue has a number of properties that make it an attractive option for use in the management of wounds and in compromised surgical sites. Placental tissue is:

Anti-inflammatory

Causing a shift to an anti-inflammatory phenotype, which promotes healing. Mechanisms involved include suppression of key pro-inflammatory cytokines eg, IL-1α and -β and TNF-α; presence of matrix metalloproteinase inhibitors and high expression of anti-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-10

Anti-scarring

Stimulating tissue reconstruction rather than scar tissue formation with the downregulation of TGF-β and its receptor on fibroblasts

Anti-adhesive

Preventing adhesion formation due to the control of inflammation and rapid tissue healing

Anti-microbial

Preventing infections by acting as a physical barrier to bacteria and producing antimicrobial peptides, eg, β-defensins

Pro-angiogenic

Promoting healing by promoting endothelial cell migration and proliferation and increasing capillary density due to presence of growth factors (VEGF, bFGF)

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