Bacteriostatic effects of cell-free matrix lyophilisates and hydrogel from human umbilical cord

The bacteriostatic effects of human umbilical cord-derived matrices and hydrogels were examined. The use of biomimetics based on the extracellular matrix of extraembryonic organs, including the human umbilical cord, is promising for regenerative medicine and tissue engineering. Cell-free products from the extracellular matrix of various human organs and tissues are resistant to intentional bacterial contamination. Two acellular scaffolds prepared using different human umbilical cord decellularization protocols and two derived hydrogels were evaluated for their bacteriostatic properties. Two clinical cases of the use of lyophilisates of umbilical cord-derived hydrogels were described. The compositions of human umbilical cord-derived acellular matrices and hydrogels were studied using biochemical analysis techniques. The sensitivities of Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli to umbilical cord-derived matrices and hydrogels were assessed using culture techniques, and metabolic activities of bacteria were also examined. Human umbilical cord-derived acellular matrices and hydrogels consist of collagens and contain proteins and glycosaminoglycans. A significant bacteriostatic effect of hydrogels against Escherichia coli was detected during the first 16 h of incubation, regardless of the type of detergents used for their preparation. The matrices did not show a bacteriostatic effect, which indicates that the hydrolysis of structural components contributes to the release of substances with bacteriostatic activities. The effect was presumed to be due to the influence on the level of metabolic activity of microorganisms. The use of powdered lyophilized hydrogels derived from human umbilical cord as an adjunct to autodermal graft in the treatment of infected deep wounds in two volunteer patients promoted healing without infections. In general, the use of hydrogel lyophilisates from acellular human umbilical cord as an additional treatment allows for the engraftment of skin autografts and promotes the healing of extensive deep wounds at risk of infection.