(LR-019) In Vitro Analysis and Comparison of Dehydrated Human Amniotic Membrane; Dual vs Tri-layer Membrane Constructions
Co-Author(s):
Gary Monteiro, PhD; Isabella Sledge, PhD, MPH; Mora Melican, PhD
Introduction: Extracellular matrices from placental tissue are an attractive material for applications in regenerative medicine. Given the difficulties in using fresh placental tissues at the point of care, developed processes aim to preserve the inherent factors of birth tissue for therapeutic use. While these processes revolutionize access to regenerative birth tissue, it is unclear how these processes impact the factors of dehydrated wound coverings. Herein, in vitro analysis and characterization of dual layer dehydrated human amniotic membrane and tri-layer dehydrated human amniotic and chorionic membrane was completed to compare results and determine differences between the two types of wound coverings.
Methods: Samples for histology were paraffin embedded, and H&E slides were prepared and evaluated. Biomechanical testing was completed using ADMET tabletop 1kN expert 7601 Universal Test System with MTEST Quatro Standard Software. Mass Spectrometry samples were processed and analyzed. Lastly, HA Molecular Weight and Concentration samples were processed and analyzed.
Results: Histological analysis indicates that amnion and chorion layers are clearly distinguishable in both dual layer and tri-layer wound coverings. The tri-layer wound covering, with an average thickness of 102.8±13.5 µm, is thicker than the dual layer wound covering, with an average thickness of 56.8±15 µm. T-test demonstrates a p-value < 0.05, proving that the increased thickness of tri-layer wound covering is significant. Max force testing demonstrates that tri-layer wound covering requires a 3x greater max force to rupture than dual layer wound covering. Elasticity testing demonstrates that tri-layer wound covering is more elastomeric than dual layer wound covering.
Discussion: The tri-layer wound covering comprised of human amnion and chorion provides improved handling properties when compared to dual layer wound covering comprised of human amnion. Improved handling properties of tri-layer wound covering include increased thickness, strength, and elasticity.