Effects of Asiaticoside Treatment on the Survival of Random Skin Flaps in Rats

Abstract

Background: Asiaticoside (AS) is extracted from the traditional herbal medicine Centella asiatica, and has angiogenic, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and wound-healing effects. We investigated the effects of AS on skin flap survival. Methods: Dorsal McFarlane flaps were harvested from 36 rats and divided into two groups: an experimental group treated with 40 mg/kg AS administered orally once daily, and a control group administered normal saline in an identical manner. On day 2, superoxide dismutase (SOD) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, and production of the cytokines tumor necrosis factor-α and interleukin (IL)-6 were evaluated. On day 7, tissue slices were stained with hematoxylin and eosin. The expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), IL-6, and IL-1β were immunohistochemically evaluated. Microcirculatory flow was measured using laser Doppler flowmetry. Flap angiography, using the lead oxide-gelatin injection technique, was performed with the aid of a soft X-ray machine. Results: The AS group exhibited greater mean flap survival area, improved microcirculatory flow, and higher expression levels of SOD and VEGF compared with the control group. However, MDA levels and the inflammatory response were significantly reduced. Conclusions: AS exhibits promise as a therapeutic option due to its effects on the viability and function of random skin flaps in rats.