Differential Expression of Matrix Metalloproteinase-1 in Vitro Corresponds to Tissue Morphogenesis and Quality Assurance of Cultured Skin Substitutes1

MMP-1 was significantly higher in the media from two of the four HF strains and CSS after a 24 h incubation period. Elevated MMP-1 coincided with premature degradation of the dermal substitute in vitro, and reduced numbers of CSS that met quality assurance standards for clinical transplantation.