Topical Role of Ozonated Aloe vera Oil in Radiation Dermatitis: Expression of TGF-β and Collagen Density

Abstract

BACKGROUND: The effect of ozonated Aloe vera in the treatment of radiation dermatitis has not been studied, while long-term use of topical steroids can cause some side effects. AIM: The aim of the study was to analyze the effect of topical administration of ozonated Aloe vera oil on the expression of TGF-β and collagen density in the treatment of radiation dermatitis. METHODS: 36 Sprague Dawley rats were randomized into six groups, namely, K1 (negative control-without therapy), K2 (positive control-hydrocortisone cream 2.5%), P1 (Aloe vera oil), P2, P3, and P4 (ozonized Aloe vera oil 300/600/1200 mg/ml). Termination and immunohistopathological analysis of TGF-β expression and collagen density were performed after 7 days of treatment. RESULTS: Measurement of TGF-β expression by ANNOVA test showed a significant difference between groups p = 0.001. The Post Hoc LSD test showed significant differences between groups K1 and P1, P2, P3, and P4 also between groups K2 and P2, P3, and P4. Measurement of collagen density by Kruskal–Wallis test showed a significant difference between the treatment groups p < 0.001. Post hoc Mann–Whitney test of collagen density found a significant difference between groups K1 and P1, P2, P3, and P4 also between groups K2 and P2, P3, and P4. Spearman’s rho correlation test showed a strong and unidirectional relationship between TGF-β and collagen (p < 0.001 and r = 0.722). CONCLUSION: Topical ozonated Aloe vera oil increased TGF-β expression and collagen density in radiation dermatitis.