A Mouse Model of Mechanotransduction-driven, Human-like Hypertrophic Scarring

Hypertrophic scarring (HTS) is an abnormal process of wound healing that results in excessive scar tissue formation. Over the past decade, we have demonstrated that mechanotransduction-the conversion of mechanical stimuli into cellular responses-drives excessive fibrotic scar healing. A mouse model to assess human-like hypertrophic scarring would be an essential tool for examining various therapeutics and their ability to reduce scarring and improve healing. Specifically, our laboratory has developed a murine wound model that increases mechanical strain to promote human-like HTS. This protocol utilizes biomechanical loading devices, made from modified 13 mm palatal expanders, whose arms are placed on either side of the incision and distracted incrementally apart in order to apply continuous tension across the wound bed during healing. Over nearly two decades of use, this model has been significantly advanced to improve efficacy and reproducibility. Using the murine HTS model, significant dermal fibrotic scars can be induced to be histologically comparable to human hypertrophic scars. This murine model provides an environment to develop biologics involved in the treatment of HTS and mechanotransduction-related conditions such as foreign body response.