Copper is known for its strong biocidal and anti-inflammatory properties, and as an accelerator of angiogenesis, cell proliferation and secretion of Extra Cellular Matrix (ECM) proteins. It is therefore an excellent candidate in the treatment of wounds. The role of few factors which presumably mediate copper’s ability to promote wound healing processes is already established. However, the molecular mechanism by which copper facilitates healthy wound healing in a way that can explain the connection between the early events in the wound microenvironment with later healing processes such as tissue formation and remodeling is not entirely clear. The ability of copper to induce tissue formation was examined in an ex vivo model of burned human skin. Gene expression and protein secretion during the first days following the burn infliction, were tested in qPCR and ELISA, respectively. Proliferation, migration and apoptosis of keratinocytes and fibroblasts were tested in vitro. Copper ions were found to induce re-epithelization and moderate the inflammatory response to thermal burn injury ex vivo. In vitro experiments demonstrated accelerated proliferation and migration of keratinocytes, but not fibroblasts, following copper administration. Though Copper induces the secretion of ECM proteins in healthy skin, it lowers the expression and secretion of TGFβ1 from injured skin tissue. Inhibition of the inflammatory response, lowering of TGFβ1 amounts and its lack of effect on fibroblast migration, combine with results of clinical trials showing that treatment with copper impregnated wound dressing facilitates wounds healing and reduces swelling and scar formation in surgical wounds, and therefore may indicate its contribution to a healthy tissue remodeling and reduction in severity of scar formation.

ESDR614 - Evaluating the role of copper ions in the various phases of burn and wound healing by using an ex vivo human burn model

The scientific meeting of the European Society for Dermatological Research (ESDR) is held yearly, usually in September. With an international attendance of more than 1000 skin scientists from around the globe, the four-day event includes short oral presentations from peer-reviewed abstracts, keynote lectures from international experts, sponsored symposia, satellite programs, educational events as well as an important focus on posters, networking and building collaborations amongst scientists. For more information about this year’s meeting visit our website.