The skin represents the largest and most accessible organ of the body, and it
is subjected to numerous aggressions such as infections, physical wounds and diseases.
After a moderate-intensity injury, the intrinsic regenerative mechanisms of the skin
lead to restoration of the tissue integrity. However, in some pathological cases such as
chronic wounds and extensive burns, the healing capacity of the tissue is overwhelmed.
In order to resolve these injuries, innovative therapies based on miRNAs as well as
paracrine and trophic activities of stem cells combined with biomaterials are currently
being developed. This chapter begins with a description of skin biology, followed by
the main stages of wound healing including the key cells and molecules involved. Next,
we describe the most studied miRNAs relevant for chronic wounds therapies and the
proposed methods of delivery. Regarding cellular therapy, the main adult differentiated
cells as well as stem cells available from different sources, are presented. Then, we
address the commercially available skin substitutes and also the latest innovative
approaches, including 3D bioprinting, for combining biomaterials with the activity of
the cells previously described, in order to promote wound repair and regeneration. This
chapter concludes with current challenges and future perspectives regarding the use of
stem cells for skin regeneration.
Keywords: Biomaterials, Cellular therapy, Chronic wounds, microRNAs, Skin,
Skin biology, Stem cells.
