The research, conducted by scientists at China Medical University, focused on creating an electrospun scaffold made from polycaprolactone and gelatin (PG), further enhanced with YIGSR peptide and heparin. The aim was to promote angiogenesis – the formation of new blood vessels – which plays a critical role in skin regeneration.  

The resulting scaffold, referred to as PGHY, was tested in both in vitro (lab-based) and in vivo (animal) models. In cell-based studies, PGHY enhanced human endothelial cell proliferation, migration, and tube formation – key processes in blood vessel development. These effects were linked to the activation of the FAK/MAPK/ERK1/2 signaling pathway and increased expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF).  

Among the variants tested, PGHY1.0 (with 1.0% YIGSR concentration) showed the most favorable results. It exhibited a stable release of the peptide and significantly improved vascular activity compared to control scaffolds without the modifications.  

In a mouse model with full-thickness skin wounds, PGHY1.0 also led to faster wound closure and enhanced blood vessel formation compared to the unmodified scaffold. Histological analysis supported the observed improvements in tissue regeneration.  

The study suggests that combining YIGSR and heparin within an electrospun scaffold can enhance both cellular responses and wound healing outcomes. While further research, including human trials, will be required to assess clinical applicability, the findings indicate potential for developing advanced wound care materials aimed at accelerating healing and promoting tissue regeneration.