Scar Healing Research Articles

Human Nasal Turbinate-Derived Stem Cells for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are multipotent progenitor cells present in adult tissues that are recognized as promising candidates for cell therapy due to their ease of access, straightforward isolation, and capacity for bio-preservation with minimal loss of potency. However, the clinical application of MSCs faces significant challenges, such as donor site morbidity, underscoring the need for alternative sources. Recent studies have suggested that inferior turbinate tissues, which are commonly removed during turbinate surgery, may be a viable donor site for MSCs. Turbinate surgery is a safe and effective procedure frequently performed to alleviate nasal obstruction, a prevalent chronic condition treated by otolaryngologists. This implies that harvesting MSCs from turbinate tissue for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine could serve as a simple, minimally invasive method with faster healing and minimal risk of morbidity or scarring at the donor site. This review highlights previous research indicating that MSCs derived from human turbinate tissues maintain their stability and demonstrate multi-differentiation potential. Therefore, the turbinate could be an alternative to traditional MSC sources for producing functionally competent cells for future clinical applications.

Full-thickness burn scar treatment using a combination of microneedling and platelet-rich plasma in animal model

Microneedling (MA) and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapies have shown potential for enhancing scar repair through collagen production and growth factor release, yet their effects on full-thickness burn scars remain underexplored. This study evaluated the impact of MA, PRP, and combined MA + PRP treatments on scar healing in a rat model of full-thickness burns. Fifty adult rats were divided into four groups: control, MA, PRP, and MA + PRP. Treatments were administered 21 days post-burn, and animals were evaluated at 14- and 21-days post-treatment. Macroscopic, histopathological, and morphometric analyses were performed to assess epithelialization, extracellular matrix (ECM) organization, and collagen deposition. The combination of MA + PRP demonstrated superior outcomes, showing enhanced ECM organization, significant collagen deposition, increased angiogenesis, and an improved inflammatory profile with mononuclear cell infiltration. Morphometric analysis confirmed a substantial increase in collagen content, particularly in the MA + PRP group, supporting improved tissue remodeling and scar maturation. These findings suggest that combined MA + PRP therapy may be a promising approach for promoting effective and accelerated burn scar healing. Further research is warranted to optimize protocols for clinical application.

Rac1 inhibition regenerates wounds in mouse fetuses via altered actin dynamics

Mammalian wounds leave visible scars, and there are no methods for complete regeneration. However, mouse fetuses regenerate their skin, including epidermal and dermal structures, up to embryonic day (E)13. This regeneration pattern requires the formation of actin cables in the wound margin epithelium; however, the molecular mechanisms are not fully understood. Rac1 alters actin in cells and is involved in the formation of filopodia. We investigated whether actin remodeling and skin regeneration patterns can be reproduced through the regulation of Rac1 signaling. Rac1 expression was downregulated in E13 wounds and upregulated after E15 when scars remained. NSC23766, a Rac1-specific inhibitor, altered actin dynamics at the cell margin from filopodia formation to cable formation and inhibited the migration of mouse epidermal keratinocyte, PAM212, by Rac1 signaling suppression. NSC23766 suppressed Rac1 activity and completely regenerated the fetal mouse wounds, even at E14, by changing actin dynamics. Knocked-out Rac1 transgenic mice experienced delayed epithelialization of wounds with suppressed epidermal migration in adults; however, in fetuses, complete wound regeneration via Rac1 signal suppression was observed. Therefore, Rac1 suppression in the wound epidermis can achieve regenerative wound healing in fetuses and may be a potential candidate for healing scars.

Comparison of Short-Term Clinical Effects of Minimally Invasive Anterior Talofibular Ligament Reconstruction versus Suture Anchor Repair for Chronic Lateral Ankle Instability

Objective: To compare the short-term clinical effects of minimally invasive anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL) reconstruction versus suture anchor repair in patients with chronic lateral ankle instability. Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on 68 patients at the 960th Hospital of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army Joint Logistics Support Force between January 2022 and June 2023, patients were divided into two groups based on surgical procedure: Group A (ATFL reconstruction, 35 cases) and Group B (suture anchor repair, 33 cases). Follow-up ranged from 1 to 12 months, assessing the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) score, VAS pain score, Tegner activity score, and patient satisfaction, while noting any recurrence of ankle instability or complications such as numbness or infection. Results: In Group A, the AOFAS score improved from 74.46 ± 2.96 preoperatively to 90.91 ± 2.79 at final follow-up, Tegner score from 2.40 ± 0.50 to 5.69 ± 0.76, and VAS from 3.14 ± 0.85 to 1.60 ± 0.50; patient satisfaction was 8.31 ± 0.72. In Group B, AOFAS improved from 74.48 ± 2.29 to 90.55 ± 3.12, Tegner from 2.48 ± 0.51 to 5.76 ± 0.79, and VAS from 3.45 ± 0.83 to 1.73 ± 0.50, with patient satisfaction at 8.27 ± 0.63. No significant statistical difference was found between groups in any score (P > 0.05), with both groups showing significant postoperative improvement (P < 0.05) and no serious complications within 1-year follow-up. Conclusion: Both ATFL reconstruction and suture anchor repair yield favorable short-term outcomes in treating lateral ankle instability. Further research is needed to assess if anatomical reconstruction offers superior biomechanical benefits in scar healing over the suture anchor repair in long-term follow-up.

Astrocytic Ryk signaling coordinates scarring and wound healing after spinal cord injury.

Wound healing after spinal cord injury involves highly coordinated interactions among multiple cell types, which is poorly understood. Astrocytes play a central role in creating a border against the non-neural lesion core. To do so, astrocytes undergo dramatic morphological changes by first thickening the processes and then elongating and overlap them. We show here show that the expression of a cell-surface receptor, Ryk, is induced in astrocytes after injury in both rodent and human spinal cord. Astrocyte-specific knockout of Ryk dramatically elongated the reactive astrocytes and accelerated the formation of the border and reduced the size of the scar. Astrocyte-specific knockout of Ryk also accelerated the injury responses of multiple cell types, including the resolution of neuroinflammation. Single cell transcriptomics analyses revealed a broad range of changes cell signaling among astrocytes, microglia, fibroblasts, endothelial cell, etc, after astrocyte-specific Ryk knockout, suggesting that Ryk not only regulates the injury response of astrocytes but may also regulate signals which coordinate the responses of multiple cell types. The elongation is mediated by NrCAM, a cell adhesion molecule induced by astrocyte-specific conditional knockout of Ryk after spinal cord injury. Our findings suggest a promising therapeutic target to accelerate wound healing and promote neuronal survival and enhance functional recovery.

A computational model reveals an early transient decrease in fiber cross-linking that unlocks adult regeneration

The decline in regeneration efficiency after birth in mammals is a significant roadblock for regenerative medicine in tissue repair. We previously developed a computational agent based-model (ABM) that recapitulates mechanical interactions between cells and the extracellular-matrix (ECM), to investigate key drivers of tissue repair in adults. Time calibration alongside a parameter sensitivity analysis of the model suggested that an early and transient decrease in ECM cross-linking guides tissue repair toward regeneration. Consistent with the computational model, transient inhibition or stimulation of fiber cross-linking for the first six days after subcutaneous adipose tissue (AT) resection in adult mice led to regenerative or scar healing, respectively. Therefore, this work positions the computational model as a predictive tool for tissue regeneration that with further development will behave as a digital twin of our in vivo model. In addition, it opens new therapeutic approaches targeting ECM cross-linking to induce tissue regeneration in adult mammals.

Comparison of a Novel Modified PLA/HA Bioabsorbable Interference Screw With Conventional PLGA/β-TCP Screw: Effect on 1-Year Postoperative Tibial Tunnel Widening in a Canine ACLR Model.

Tibial bone tunnel widening (TW) is a common postoperative phenomenon after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). To compare the physical, biomechanical, osteoinductive, and histological characteristics of 2 fabricated bioabsorbable interference screws: (1) a modified poly(l-lactide-co-d, l-lactide) and hydroxyapatite (mPLA/HA) screw and (2) a poly(l-lactide-co-glycolide) and β-tricalcium phosphate (PLGA/β-TCP) screw; and to evaluate the effect of the PLA/HA screw on ameliorating postoperative TW in a canine ACLR model. Controlled laboratory study. In vitro, the physical and biomechanical properties of the mPLA/HA and PLGA/β-TCP screws were tested. The osteoinductive activity of the screws was studied by cell experiments. In vivo, ACLR was performed on 48 beagle dogs, divided into the mPLA/HA group and the PLGA/β-TCP group. The femoral and tibial ends of the graft were both fixed with screws. Six animals in each group were sacrificed after live computed tomography (CT) scanning at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively. For six knee samples of each group, three knee samples underwent biomechanical testing, and 1 of them, along with the other 3 samples, underwent micro-CT and histological examination to evaluate tibial TW. The mPLA/HA screw exhibited better particle dispersion, bending strength, desirable self-locking effect, and optimized degradation behavior both in vivo and in vitro. Histologically, the mPLA/HA screw had comparative osteoinductive activity. There was good screw-bone integration using the mPLA/HA screw, while most fibrous scar healing was in the PLGA/β-TCP group. There were significant differences between the mPLA/HA and PLGA/β-TCP groups in tibial bone tunnel diameter at the screw body (6 months postoperatively: 5.09 ± 0.44 vs 7.12 ± 0.67; 12 months postoperatively: 4.83 ± 0.27 vs 6.23 ± 0.56; P < .01 for both) and the screw tail (6 months postoperatively: 4.84 ± 0.28 vs 5.97 ± 0.73; 12 months postoperatively: 4.77 ± 0.29 vs 5.92 ± 0.56; P < .01 for both). Compared with the PLGA/β-TCP screw commonly used in clinics at present, the mPLA/HA screw had comparative biosafety and mechanical properties, satisfactory biomechanical properties, and osteoinductive activity in vivo and in vitro. It effectively ameliorated the postoperative tibial TW in a canine ACLR model and increased the quality of screw-bone integration. The good mechanical and biological properties of the mPLA/HA screws may provide an option to reduce the incidence of complications after ACLR.

Exploring Astaxanthin-Loaded Nanoformulations for Skin Targeting: Present Progress and Prospective Directions

This comprehensive review provides information on astaxanthin-loaded topical nanocarrier- based formulations for targeted skin enhancement. Astaxanthin, a potent carotenoid derived from microalgae, has garnered considerable attention for its multifaceted potential in skincare, particularly when incorporated into nanocarriers. These nanocarriers, like nanoemulsions, micelles, hydrogels and nanoparticles, have revolutionized the field of dermatology by providing innovative solutions to overcome the limitations associated with astaxanthin's solubility and stability. Astaxanthin's exceptional antioxidant properties, including its ability to neutralize free radicals within both lipid and aqueous environments, make it a compelling bioactive ingredient for combatting oxidative stress, a central contributor to skin aging and various dermatological conditions. The nanoscale size of these carriers facilitates enhanced skin penetration, controlled release, and improved bioavailability, thereby augmenting astaxanthin's therapeutic efficacy. This review meticulously explores the mechanistic insights behind astaxanthin's enhanced delivery and its multifaceted benefits, including photoprotection, anti-inflammatory effects, and wound healing properties. The diverse applications of astaxanthin-loaded nanocarriers in skincare, spanning anti-aging formulations, UV protection, scar healing, and wound repair, are elucidated. Safety considerations are also addressed, drawing from an extensive analysis of preclinical and clinical studies. The review provides valuable insights into optimal concentrations, formulation strategies, and regulatory aspects governing astaxanthin-loaded nanocarriers in skincare products.

Scar Formation, Healing Stages, and Advanced Treatment Strategies – Review

Introduction and Aim of the Study: Scarring is a major concern in clinical dermatology, affecting individuals' quality of life due to both physical and psychological impacts. This review aims to explore the pathophysiology of various scar types—hypertrophic, keloid, and atrophic—and evaluate the effectiveness of current and emerging treatments to inform better clinical practices and therapeutic strategies. Description of the State of Knowledge: Scar formation involves complex biological processes: inflammation, proliferation, and remodeling. The nature of the scar varies with the underlying cause and biological response, influenced by genetic factors, skin tension, and environmental elements such as UV exposure. Recent advances in treatments range from surgical techniques to laser therapy and biological agents like cytokines. Conclusion: The studies reviewed underscore the complexity of scar management, influenced by diverse genetic, biological, and environmental factors. No single treatment is universally effective, but a combination of preventative and therapeutic strategies shows the best promise.

Characterization of Tissue Immunity Defense Factors of the Lip in Primary Dentition Children with Bilateral Cleft Lip Palate.

Bilateral cleft lip palate is a severe congenital birth defect of the mouth and face. Immunity factors modulate immune response, inflammation, and healing; therefore, they are vital in the assessment of the immunological status of the patient. The aim of this study is to assess the distribution of Gal-10, CD-163, IL-4, IL-6, IL-10, HBD-2, HBD-3, and HBD-4 in tissue of the bilateral cleft lip palate in primary dentition children. Five patients underwent cheiloplasty surgery, where five tissue samples of lip were obtained. Immunohistochemical staining, semi-quantitative evaluation, and non-parametric statistical analysis were used. A statistically significant increase in HBD-2, HBD-3, and HBD-4 was found in skin and mucosal epithelium, hair follicles, and blood vessels. A notable increase was also noted in IL-4, IL-6, and IL-10 in the mucosal epithelium and CD163 in blood vessels. The connective tissue of patients presented with a statistically significant decrease in Gal-10, IL-10, and HBD-3. Spearman's rank correlation revealed multiple significant positive and negative correlations between the factors. Upregulation of CD163 points to increased angiogenesis but the increase in IL-4 and IL-10 as well as the decrease in Gal-10 points to suppression of excessive inflammatory damage. Decreased connective tissue healing and excessive scarring are suggested by the decrease in HBD-3 and IL-10 and the increase in IL-6.

Evaluation of scarless wound healing through nanohydrogel infused with selected plant extracts

In this study, a CMC-based hydrogel nanocomposite was prepared and loaded with bioactive components along with silver nanoparticles. For aesthetic reasons, an alternative was found that can result in scar-free wound healing. To accelerate scar-free wound healing, bioactive phytoproducts such as aloe vera, curcumin, and peel of plantain were blended along with the nanocomposite hydrogel that contained silver nanoparticles (CMC + Ag + P). The prepared hydrogels proved to have good antibacterial activity against both Gram-positive (S.aureus) and Gram-negative (E.coli) non-pathogenic bacteria. The prepared hydrogel had an excellent wound-healing ability which was studied using in vitro scratch assay against A375 cell line. The biocompatibility of the hydrogels was proved using an MTT assay. The scar free wound healing was established in Wistar rat model where burn wounds were healed using CMC + Ag + P. The wound healed were compared with only silver (CMC + Ag) and saline treated animals and the histopathological studies, VEGF and PDGF analysis confirmed that the wound healing was scar free after CMC + Ag + P treatment. We could conclude that the presence of plantain peel extract which is a source of ascorbic acid and is rich in vitamin C can aid in scar-free wound healing.

Platelet-rich plasma in dermatology and aesthetic medicine

Introduction and purpose Aesthetic medicine is one of the youngest fields of medicine. Initially, it focused on improving the quality of life of patients by using various treatments aimed at stopping the aging process. Over time, this branch of medicine has developed dynamically, and nowadays the treatments focus not only on improving the appearance of the skin and its defects, but are also used to treat many dermatological problems. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is an autologous concentrate of platelets in a small volume of plasma. having numerous applications in many fields of medicine. The aim of this work is to present the method, focusing on its positive effects in the problems of aesthetic and regenerative medicine, as well as in some dermatological diseases. Material and methods The review was baised on the articles obtained from Pubmed and Google Scholar scientific databases from recent years using the keywords: aesthetic medicine, platelet-rich plasma, dermatology. Results The presence of numerous growth factors and other active ingredients makes the action of PRP comprehensive and based on several mechanisms. Studies show a positive effect, especially in skin rejuvenation and anti-aging prevention, hair reconstruction, wound healing and reconstruction of scars of various etiologies, as well as in pigmentation disorders. Moreover, combining PRP with other methods such as laser therapy or microneedling produces a synergistic effect, improving overall treatment results. Conclusions Platelet-rich plasma is an autologous preparation obtained after centrifugation of blood collected from the patient. The properties of PRP make it widely used in many clinical situations. is used both in aesthetic medicine and in dermatological problems. It should be emphasized that further multi-center studies are needed to standardize treatment protocols and adapt them to specific problems. Keywords: aesthetic medicine, platelet-rich plasma, dermatology.

A Review on Traditional Medicine Used for Burn Treatment.

Considering the high consumption of and preference for traditional treatments among people and the lack of enough studies on the effectiveness of these treatments, we aimed to review articles on the use of traditional and complementary medicine, focusing on how they affect healing, debridement, and hypertrophic scars. In this study, we conducted the literature search in international databases PubMed, Google Scholar, Ovid, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library, as well as Persian databases Scientific Information Database (SID), Magiran, Iranmedex, and IranDoc. Retrieved hits were reviewed by three authors for screening based on inclusion and exclusion criteria, and the screening process is expressed as Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses framework flow chart. Twenty-two studies were included. The evaluated outcomes were wound healing in 19, pain control in 5, itching in 4, and scar appearance in 2 studies. All of the studies showed equal or improved effects compared to common treatments. Aloe vera, Centella asiatica, and Arnebia euchroma were the most common plants. We revealed that traditional medicine is beneficial in burn wound treatment. The diversity in ingredients that are used in traditional medicine brings up the need for further controlled prospective studies to evaluate the precise superiority of these treatments compared to standard care.

Exosomes derived from bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell preconditioned by low-intensity pulsed ultrasound stimulation promote bone–tendon interface fibrocartilage regeneration and ameliorate rotator cuff fatty infiltration

BackgroundFibrovascular scar healing of bone-tendon interface (BTI) instead of functional fibrocartilage regeneration is the main concern associated with unsatisfactory prognosis in rotator cuff repair. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) exosomes have been reported to be a new promising cell-free approach for rotator cuff healing. Whereas, controversies abound in whether exosomes of native MSCs alone can effectively induce chondrogenesis. PurposeTo explore the effect of exosomes derived from low-intensity pulsed ultrasound stimulation (LIPUS)-preconditioned bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (LIPUS-BMSC-Exos) or un-preconditioned BMSCs (BMSC-Exos) on rotator cuff healing and the underlying mechanism. MethodsC57BL/6 mice underwent unilateral supraspinatus tendon detachment and repair were randomly assigned to saline, BMSCs-Exos or LIPUS-BMSC-Exos injection therapy. Histological, immunofluorescent and biomechanical tests were detected to investigate the effect of exosomes injection on BTI healing and muscle fatty infiltration of the repaired rotator cuff. In vitro, native BMSCs were incubated with BMSC-Exos or LIPUS-BMSC-Exos and then chondrogenic/adipogenic differentiation were observed. Further, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) was performed to detect the chondrogenesis/adipogenesis-related miRNA profiles of LIPUS-BMSC-Exos and BMSC-Exos. The chondrogenic/adipogenic potential of the key miRNA was verified through function recover test with its mimic and inhibitor. ResultsThe results indicated that the biomechanical properties of the supraspinatus tendon-humeral junction were significantly improved in the LIPUS-BMSC-Exos group than that of the BMSCs-Exos group. The LIPUS-BMSC-Exos group also exhibited a higher histological score and more newly regenerated fibrocartilage at the repair site at postoperative 2 and 4 weeks and less fatty infiltration at 4 weeks than the BMSCs-Exos group. In vitro, co-culture of BMSCs with LIPUS-BMSC-Exos could significantly promote BMSCs chondrogenic differentiation and inhibit adipogenic differentiation. Subsequently, qRT-PCR revealed significantly higher enrichment of chondrogenic miRNAs and less enrichment of adipogenic miRNAs in LIPUS-BMSC-Exos compared with BMSC-Exos. Moreover, we demonstrated that this chondrogenesis-inducing potential was primarily attributed to miR-140, one of the most abundant miRNAs in LIPUS-BMSC-Exos. ConclusionLIPUS-preconditioned BMSC-Exos can effectively promote BTI fibrocartilage regeneration and ameliorate supraspinatus fatty infiltration by positive regulation of pro-chondrogenesis and anti-adipogenesis, which was primarily through delivering miR-140. The translational potential of this articleThese findings propose an innovative “LIPUS combined Exosomes strategy” for rotator cuff healing which combines both physiotherapeutic and biotherapeutic advantages. This strategy possesses a good translational potential as a local injection of LIPUS preconditioned BMSC-derived Exos during operation can be not only efficient for promoting fibrocartilage regeneration and ameliorating rotator cuff fatty infiltration, but also time-saving, simple and convenient for patients.

Improvement in scar appearance with the usage of silicone gel containing vitamin C for pediatric Asian patients

Background Silicone gel has been introduced as a preventive measure for scarring, yet there is limited objective evidence supporting its effectiveness in the healing of pediatric traumatic scars. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of silicone gel enriched with vitamin C on facial scars in Asian pediatric patients.Methods Pediatric patients aged 3 months to 12 years who underwent debridement and primary repair for simple facial lacerations were included in this study. A topical silicone gel mixture containing vitamin C was applied from the time of stitch removal until 6 months post-operation. Scars were evaluated at baseline, 1-, 3-, and 6-month post-application using a simplified version of the Vancouver Scar Scale, which assessed vascularity, pigmentation, and height. Scar color and pigmentation were quantified using a spectrophotometer, with comparisons to the symmetrical area on the opposite side of the scar. Statistical analysis was conducted using the Student t-test and repeated-measures analysis of variance, with post hoc testing for pairwise comparisons.Results Of the participants, 33 were men, and 19 were women. By 6 months, there was a significant improvement in the scar score on the Vancouver Scar Scale across all parameters. The erythema index showed a statistically significant decrease at each timeline (P&lt;0.001). Similarly, the melanin index demonstrated a significant difference between the baseline and 6 months (P&lt;0.001).Conclusions The topical application of silicone gel containing vitamin C significantly improved the appearance of fine surgical scars on the face in Asian pediatric patients.

Safety and Efficacy of Lecoxen Cream on the Wound Healing and Scar of Cesarean Section: A Prospective Observational Clinical Trial

Background: One of the most popular surgical procedures is the cesarean section (CS), and one of the most prevalent side effects of this procedure is wound and scar issues. The aim of this prospective, short-term, placebo-controlled study was to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of a silicone-based medical device (Lecoxen cream, Ekuberg Pharma, Carpignano Salentino, Italy) in healing wounds and scars derived from cesarean sections in nulliparous women. Methods: Seventy-four nulliparous women, ranging in age from 18 to 45, and underwent CSs, were divided in two groups of treatment (Lecoxen cream or Vaseline). The quality of scar was examined using the Vancouver scar scale after 28 days, while wound healing was evaluated using the Redness, Edema, Ecchymosis, Discharge, and Approximation (REEDA) scale on the 14th day following CS. Results: The treatment with Lecoxen cream determined a statistically significant improvement (p &lt; 0.001) of the wound healing state, in terms of redness, edema, ecchymoses and discharge. Even about Vancouver Scar Scale (VSS) score there was a significative improvement in the observed group in terms of vascularization, pigmentation, flexibility and height (p &lt; 0.001). No adverse effects were reported from the use of Lecoxen cream in participants. Conclusions: Lecoxen cream proved to be a safe and efficient treatment for wounds from CSs, making it a valuable topical to accelerate the healing process and reduce the visibility of scars. Clinical Trial Registration: The study was registered with the ISRCTN registry (https://www.isrctn.com/), registration number: ISRCTN51125312.

Europium-based complex crosslinked with hyaluronic acid sponge with controllable adaptive capability to promote effective scarless regeneration of burn wound

The occurrence of severe skin burns may lead to delayed wound healing and persistent scarring. Agents that promote angiogenesis hold great promise for enhancing the effectiveness of wound healing, while modulation of oxidative stress, inflammation, and anti-fibrotic cytokines exhibits significant potential in alleviating scars. In this study, a novel hyaluronic acid- chitooligosaccharides/europium (HA-CE) sponge was prepared. HA-CE sponge were highly absorbent and could scavenge free radicals, as well as promoted macrophages polarized toward M2. HA-CE sponge also promoted the angiogenesis, which was related to the increased vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression. The expression of CD26 in fibroblast was down-regulated and the transforming growth factor-β3 (TGF-β3) was elevated by HA-CE sponge. The HA-CE sponge in the burnt wound model enhanced angiogenesis and anti-inflammatory responses, thereby accelerating healing of burnt wounds and ameliorating scarring-related factors to inhibit scar formation. These findings identified HA-CE sponge had potential to be developed as a dressing for burnt skin wound.

Evaluation of Silicone-Based Gel for the Treatment of Hypertrophic Scarring in Rat Models

Background: Hypertrophic scarring represents an aberrant response to wounds in certain individuals, manifesting with symptoms such as itching, tenderness, pain, and pigmentation. This study aimed to investigate the impact of a silicone-based gel on the healing of hypertrophic scars, particularly those originating from deep tissue wounds.Methods: A rat model of wound healing and scarring was established, and 12 rats were randomly assigned to three groups: Dermatix Ultra group, SFG-100 silicone-gel group, and non-treated group. Rats in the treated groups (Dermatix Ultra and SFG-100 silicone-gel) received twice-daily applications for 8 weeks. Histologic analysis, including biopsy, was conducted to evaluate the scar elevation index, epidermis thickness, and the number of granulation veins.Results: Overall, both the Dermatix Ultra and SFG-100 silicone-gel groups exhibited improvements in hypertrophic scar healing, accompanied by a significant reduction in skin pigmentation. Histopathologically, scars in both treated groups displayed a notable decrease in scar elevation index, epithelial thickness, and collagen disorganization compared to the non-treated group. However, no significant difference was observed between the Dermatix Ultra and SFG-100 silicone-gel groups.Conclusion: The results suggest that SFG-100 silicone-gel is an effective therapeutic agent for hypertrophic scars. Further research is warranted to elucidate the mechanisms underlying its efficacy and to optimize its application for clinical use.

Bioorthogonal targeted cell membrane vesicles/cell-sheet composites reduce postoperative tumor recurrence and scar formation of melanoma

While surgical resection is the predominant clinical strategy in the treatment of melanoma, postoperative recurrence and undetectable metastasis are both pernicious drawbacks to this otherwise highly successful approach. Furthermore, the deep cavities result from tumor excision can leave long lasting wounds which are slow to heal and often leave visible scars. These unmet needs are addressed in the present work through the use of a multidimensional strategy, and also promotes wound healing and scar reduction. In the first phase, cell membrane-derived nanovesicles (NVs) are engineered to show PD-1 and dibenzocyclooctyne (DBCO). These are capable of reactivating T cells by blocking the PD-1/PD-L1 pathway. In the second phase, azido (N3) labeled mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are cultured into cell sheets using tissue engineering, then apply directly to surgical wounds to enhance tissue repair. Owing to the complementary association between DBCO and N3 groups, PD-1 NVs were accumulated at the site of excision. This strategy can inhibit postoperative tumor recurrence and metastasis, whilst also promoting wound healing and reducing scar formation. The results of this study set a precedent for a new and innovative multidimensional therapeutic strategy in the postoperative treatment of melanoma.

Effect of ‘Procumbenase’ a serine protease from Tridax procumbens aqueous extract on wound healing: A scar free healing of full thickness wounds

Wound healing involves several cellular and molecular pathways. Tridax procumbens activates genetic pathways with antibacterial, antioxidant, anticancer, and anti-inflammatory properties, aiding wound healing. This study purified Procumbenase, a serine protease from T. procumbens extract, using gel filtration (Sephadex G-75) and ion exchange (CM-Sephadex C-50) chromatography. Characterization involved analyses of protease activity, RP-HPLC, SDS-PAGE, gelatin zymogram, PAS staining, mass spectrometry, and circular dichroism. Optimal pH and temperature were determined. Protease type was identified using inhibitors. Wound-healing potential was evaluated through tensile strength, wound models, hydroxyproline estimation, and NIH 3T3 cell scratch analysis. In incision wound rat models, Procumbenase increased tensile strength on day 14 more than saline and Povidone‑iodine. It increased wound contraction by 89 % after 10 days in excision wound models, attaining full contraction by day 15 and closure by day 21. Scarless wound healing was enhanced by 18 days of epithelialization against 22 and 21 days for saline and povidone‑iodine. Procumbenase increased hydroxyproline concentration 2.53-fold (59.93 ± 2.89 mg/g) compared to saline (23.67 ± 1.86 mg/g). In NIH 3 T3 cell scratch assay, Procumbenase increased migration by 60.93 % (50 μg) and 60.57 % (150 μg) after 48 h. Thus, Procumbenase is the primary bioactive molecule in T. procumbens, demonstrates scar-free wound healing properties.