Spatial Transcriptomics Reveals that a Novel Microporous [nCounter]

ABSTRACT: Full-thickness burns frequently lead to scarring and long-term functional impairment driven by aberrant extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling. Although split-thickness skin grafting (STSG) is the clinical standard, complete restoration of normal skin architecture is not always achieved. Biomaterial wound matrices can supplement grafting, yet how material architecture shapes spatially resolved cellular and transcriptional programs during STSG remains poorly understood. We utilized the GeoMx Digital Spatial Profiler (GeoMx) to compare STSG supplemented with a novel microporous annealed particle (MAP) hydrogel, a non-microporous polyethylene glycol (PEG) hydrogel, or grafting alone in a porcine model of full-thickness burns. Analyses focused on the papillary dermis across early (day 7), mid (day 14), and late (day 120) healing. Principal component analysis, cell deconvolution, and pathway analysis revealed distinct healing trajectories. PEG-treated wounds showed excessive contraction with strong early activation of mechanotransductive and myofibroblast-associated programs, whereas wounds treated with grafting alone elicited a limited transcriptional response and progressed toward dermal atrophy. In contrast, MAP promoted reduced contraction alongside a balanced transcriptional program characterized by moderate WNT and TGF-β signaling and restoration of physiological collagen organization. Together, these findings support the therapeutic potential of MAP to promote balanced ECM remodeling and mitigate scarring following severe burn injury.

ORGANISM(S): Sus scrofa domesticus Homo sapiens

PROVIDER: GSE318204 | GEO | 2026/09/15

REPOSITORIES: GEO