Abstract:Objective To construct a tissue-engineered skin model using hyaluronic acid (HA)-enhanced piezoelectric poly(L-lactic acid) (PLLA) nanofibrous membranes, and to explore its roles in mimicking the epidermal-dermal structure, supporting cell growth, and promoting wound healing. Methods PLLA nanofibrous membranes were fabricated using electrospinning, and HA was dip-coated on one side of the membranes to prepare PLLA/HA membranes with hydrophilicity and cell adhesion. Human immortalized epidermal keratinocytes (HaCaT cells) were seeded on the HA-free side of the PLLA/HA membranes, and human dermal fibroblasts (HDFs) were seeded on the HA-containing side. Cell adhesion and growth on different surfaces were evaluated by cell morphology observation and fluorescence staining. In addition, HaCaT cells were cultured in 12-well plates until a confluent monolayer formed, followed by scratch wounding. The cells were then divided into blank control group, PLLA/HA membrane control group, and tissue-engineered skin model group. The effects of different treatments on the migration ability of HaCaT cells were compared. Results The surface hydrophilicity of the HA-dip-coated PLLA membranes (PLLA/HA membranes) was significantly enhanced (indicated by a decreased contact angle, P<0.01 vs PLLA membranes), and the adhesion and proliferation of HaCaT cells and HDFs were promoted. Both HaCaT cells and HDFs could spread uniformly on both sides of the PLLA/HA membranes with favorable cell morphology and high viability. The results of the scratch assay showed that the scratch closure rate in the tissue-engineered skin model group was significantly higher than that in the PLLA/HA membrane control group (P<0.01) and the blank control group (P<0.01). Conclusion The electrospun PLLA/HA membranes not only exhibit good biocompatibility but also have potential in promoting skin tissue regeneration. This material combined with bicellular co-culture can be used to successfully construct a tissue-engineered skin model with a well-defined stratified structure, providing a reliable experimental basis for skin repair, drug screening, and disease research.