Effects of Mechanical Isolation of Stromal Vascular Fraction Combined With Mori Cortex Extract on Wound Healing.

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Wound healing is a complex process that requires effective cellular response and angiogenesis. The stromal vascular fraction (SVF) and Chinese herbal medicines such as Mori Cortex have been recognized for their regenerative potential. However, their combined effects on wound healing remain unclear. METHODS: SVFs were mechanically isolated from human adipose tissue using ultrasonic technology and then exposed to varying concentrations of Mori Cortex extract. Cell proliferation, surface marker expression, tube formation, and migration assays were conducted to evaluate cellular responses. Angiogenic and migration-related gene expression was analyzed by qPCR. A full-thickness rat wound model was used to evaluate the in vivo wound healing effects. RESULTS: Mori Cortex extract (1 μL/mL) maintained key stem cell markers (CD73, CD90, and CD105) while upregulating endothelial markers (CD31). The treated SVFs exhibited improved tube formation and increased expression of angiogenic genes, including endothelial nitric oxide synthase, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), VEGF receptor 2, and fibroblast growth factor. Furthermore, Mori Cortex extract activated integrin-AKT-FAK signaling, promoting SVF migration. In vivo, the combination of Mori Cortex extract-treated SVFs remarkably accelerated wound closure compared to the individual treatments. CONCLUSIONS: Mori Cortex extract enhanced SVF-mediated angiogenesis and tissue regeneration, revealing its potential as an adjunct therapy for wound healing.