The University of Zurich’s spin-off company Cutiss is developing personalized skin grafts from the body’s own cells that can be used for severe burns. The two-layer graft denovoSkin grows with the patient, scarring less and improves the quality of life of patients.

After the fire disaster in Crans-Montana with 40 dead and 116 injured, many of whom suffered severe burns on over 60 percent of the body surface, several of those affected are being treated in Zurich. The centers for severe burn injuries at the University Children’s Hospital and the University Hospital Zurich are among the most modern in Europe. The therapy includes stabilization, removal of dead skin and wound coverage with temporary material as well as autologous split skin. However, in the case of large-scale injuries, healthy skin is often not enough, and scars lead to impairments, especially in children, as the grafts do not grow with the patient.

Cutiss, founded by biotechnologist Daniela Marino, grows living skin grafts with epidermis and elastic dermis from a small biopsy within four weeks. Since the body’s own cells are used, there is no risk of rejection. Clinical studies show better scar quality and safe wound closure compared to standard treatment.

The procedure is in the Phase 3 trial for severe burns in adults and adolescents, in which 20 centers in eight EU countries and Switzerland are participating. Phase 2 data were recently published. In select cases of Crans-Montana victims, biopsies are sent to Cutiss to make grafts. To scale, the company is developing automated manufacturing systems with partner Tecan.

Editor: X-Press Journalistenbüro GbR

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