Injection Of bFGF Research Articles

Intracordal injection therapy for vocal fold scarring: Steroid versus basic fibroblast growth factor.

ObjectivesVocal fold scarring is caused by replacement of vocal fold mucosa with fibrous tissue due to repeated inflammation or trauma. It can lead to severe dysphonia. It is currently treated conservatively and with phonosurgery and intracordal injections. Intracordal injection of steroid or basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) has been recently found to be useful for treating vocal fold scarring that does not respond to voice therapy.MethodsThis retrospective study involved the administration of steroid injection and bFGF injection bilaterally under local anesthesia in 16 patients each. Laboratory measurements of voice parameters were performed before and 3–6 months after injection.ResultsIn the steroid injection group, the Voice Handicap Index (VHI) score significantly improved from 57.1 to 40.5, total Grade, Roughness, Breathiness, Asthenia, Strain (tGRBAS) score significantly improved from 4.2 to 2.6, and mean speech fundamental frequency (SFF) increased from 192.5 to 211.4 dB, but there was no improvement in maximum phonation time (MPT) and mean airflow rate (MFR). In the bFGF injection group, significant improvements in the VHI score (from 53.3 to 35.7), MPT (from 16.9 to 21.8 s) and MFR (from 314.6 to 210.5 ml/s) were seen; however, the tGRBAS score did not improve. In addition, the SFF significantly decreased from 178.1 to 160.5 Hz.ConclusionThese results suggest that both steroid and bFGF injections are effective for treating vocal fold scarring, with steroids improving voice quality and bFGF improving glottic closure, thereby contributing to improvements in VHI scores.Level of Evidence4.

Experimental therapy of chronic kidney ischemia using drug basic fibroblast growth factor

Abstract. The aim of the work was to experimentally study the effect of the created injectable drug basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) with the controlled release on morphological changes and indicators of renospecific enzymes in the ischemic kidney (experiment on rabbits).
 Methods. Studies on the release dynamics of the created bFGF drug were performed in vitro and the study of the induction of bFGF angiogenesis in the model of the chick chorioallantoic membrane of the chicken was performed. The experimental model was performed in 25 rabbits: in 10 rabbits we studied the effect of 1-8 months of "pure ischemia" of the kidney without injection of the drug (control); in 12 rabbits 1 month after the creation of the model of ischemia in the renal parenchyma was injected the prolonged-acting drug bFGF, deposited on our polymeric carrier at a dose of 5 μg (experiment). The reference group consisted of 3 intact rabbits. Histological examinations of renal tissue and morphometric examinations with the determination of vascular coefficient (VC) and interstitial coefficient (IC) were performed. Enzymological indicators of enzyme activity in the homogenate of the renal parenchyma were determined by biochemical methods; statistical analysis was performed.
 Results. Using chick chorioallantoic membrane as a model it was preliminarily demonstrated that developed injectable prolonged-acting drug bFGF deposited on a polymeric carrier based on cross-linked modified heparin, effectively enhances neoangiogenesis.
 The results of morphological and morphometric studies with the determination of vascular and interstitial coefficients showed, that the injection of the prolonged-acting drug bFGF in all cases was accompanied by an increased blood supply in the kidneys and neoangiogenesis, which reduced the effects of ischemia.
 Injection of bFGF at a dose of 5 μg in the model of chronic segmental renal ischemia for 3-4 months completely prevented the development of initial sclerotic and atrophic changes, that developed in the kidney during this period under the influence of chronic ischemia without bFGF. Injection of prolonged-acting bFGF at a dose of 5 μg in the model of chronic segmental renal ischemia for 5-8 months prevented expressed sclerotic and atrophic changes, that developed under the influence of chronic ischemia during this period without the use of bFGF.
 As a result of biochemical studies, the activation and normalization of indicators of renospecific tubular enzymes in the ischemic kidney under the action of the created experimental drug bFGF were determined.
 Conclusions. Therapy of ischemic changes in the kidney with the developed injectable long-acting drug bFGF at a dose of 5 µg in the experimental model of chronic ischemia protects the organ from hypoxic damage, has a positive effect on the structural and functional state and metabolism of the kidney, and prevents the development of nephrosclerosis.

The Functions and Mechanisms of Basic Fibroblast Growth Factor in Tendon Repair.

Tendon injury is a disorder of the musculoskeletal system caused by overuse or trauma, which is characterized by pain and limitations in joint function. Since tendon healing is slowly and various treatments are generally ineffective, it remains a clinically challenging problem. Recent evidences suggest that basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) not only plays an important role in tendon healing, but also shows a positive effect in laboratory experimentations. The purpose of this review is to summarize the effects of bFGF in the tendon healing. Firstly, during the inflammatory phase, bFGF stimulates the proliferation and differentiation of vascular endothelial cells to foster neovascularization. Furthermore, bFGF enhances the production of pro-inflammatory factors during the early phase of tendon healing, thereby accelerating the inflammatory response. Secondly, the cell proliferation phase is accompanied by the synthesis of a large number of extracellular matrix components. bFGF speeds up tendon healing by stimulating fibroblasts to secrete type III collagen. Lastly, the remodeling phase is characterized by the transition from type III collagen to type I collagen, which can be promoted by bFGF. However, excessive injection of bFGF can cause tendon adhesions as well as scar tissue formation. In future studies, we need to explore further applications of bFGF in the tendon healing process.

Long-term results and safety of fibroblast growth factor injection for unilateral vocal fold paralysis.

ObjectivesTreatments for unilateral vocal fold paralysis (UVFP) include conservative voice rehabilitation, vocal fold injection, and laryngeal framework surgery. We proposed basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) injection as a potential novel treatment for UVFP and have reported the short‐term results. In this study, we present the long‐term results and safety of vocal fold bFGF injection as a treatment for UVFP.MethodsThis retrospective study included 42 patients (25 males and 17 females) with UVFP who were administered a local injection of bFGF. The injection regimen involved injecting FGF (0.5 μg/ml in 0.5 ml per side) into the bilateral vocal folds using a 23‐gauge injection needle. Phonological outcomes were evaluated 6 months and 12 months after the injection.ResultsOverall, 26 patients received a single injection of bFGF, six patients received an additional injection, and 10 patients received the additional framework surgery. Maximum phonation time, mean flow rate, pitch range, jitter and shimmer percentages, the total GRBAS (grade, roughness, breathiness, asthenia, strain) score, and voice handicap index scores improved significantly in the long term. In patients who received the additional injection or framework surgery, the effects of bFGF injection were temporary, but did not interfere with the performance of the framework surgery.ConclusionIn total, 42 patients who underwent vocal fold bFGF injections were reviewed. The bFGF injections were effective and safe in the long‐term results for UVFP in the selected cases. Some patients with severe symptoms benefited from the additional framework surgery but not the additional bFGF injection.

Exploring the Role and Mechanism of Adipose Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells on Reversal of Pigmentation Model Effects.

Interventions for extrinsic aging can be implemented, but these must address photoaging, which is the primary cause of extrinsic aging. Pigmentation due to photoaging depends on the duration and intensity of sun exposure. This study investigated the relationship between adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ASCs) and photoaging pigmentation, and the underlying mechanism of action by establishing a photoaging pigmentation model using various treatments and exposure options in a guinea pigs. The energy dose of each UVB irradiation was 120 mJ/cm2 and the total dose of irradiation was 360 mJ/cm2. After successfully establishing the photoaging model, ASCs (1×106) in an balanced salt solution (0.9 ml), balanced salt solution (0.9 ml), and bFGF (9 μg) mixed with an balanced salt solution (0.9 ml) were injected intradermally in ten guinea pigs. ELISA, macroscopic skin and histological observations, and Masson-Fontana staining were done. At 2 and 4 weeks post-injection, noticeable changes were observed. Guinea pigs receiving ASCs injections displayed significantly lower visible skin scores while the melanin content continued to decrease. Somewhat improved histopathological morphology, including epidermal thinning, dermal thickening, and little inflammatory cell infiltration was observedimmediately after and up to 4 weeks of ASCs injection. Melanocortin 1 receptor (MC1R) and alpha-melanocyte test hormone (alpha-MSH) levels reduced significantly, and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) levels increased significantly immediately after and up to 4 weeks of ASCs injection. The MC1R and alpha-MSH levels reduced significantly immediately after and up to 4 weeks of bFGF injection. Briefly, intradermal ASCs injection can notably eliminate pigmentation in a guinea pig photoaging pigmentation model. This may be related to the fact that bFGF secreted by ASCs lowers MC1R and alpha-MSH levels, blocks the cAMP signalling pathway, and inhibits melanin synthesis. This finding may present new options for treating photoaging pigmentation.Level of Evidence: N/A.

Effects of FGF on tooth movement and root resorption

Introduction: Basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) is an effective cytokine in angiogenesis and bone remodeling. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of locally injected bFGF on movement rate and root resorption during orthodontic force application in dogs. Material and Methods: In this experimental animal study, four 10-12 months male dogs were selected and were randomly allocated into two groups. A week following insertion of closing coil spring between the canines and second premolars, 50 µg of bFGF was injected to the case group and phosphate saline to the control group once per month. One month after second injection, the distance between the mentioned teeth were measured. Also, root resorption percentage were analyzed on the second premolars. Results: Average maxillary tooth movement rate in case and control groups were found 2.53and 1.35mm/month respectively. The correspondent mandibular measures were 2.23mm and 1.15mm. These differences were statistically significant (P<0.0001). In respect to root resorption, the differences were found statistically significant (P<0.01) for coronal region in maxilla, which was higher in control group. Regarding the apical and middle regions of both jaws as well as coronal region of mandible the differences were insignificant. Conclusion: The results of the study showed that the local injection of bFGF can increase tooth movement rate and has the potential to decrease root resorption during orthodontic tooth movement in dogs.

A novel method of tracheal anastomosis healing using a single submucosal injection of basic fibroblast growth factor: initial report.

For the technical management of tracheal anastomosis, developing new and simple methods is required to relieve anastomotic tension. This study aimed to investigate whether basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) only once injected immediately before anastomosis promotes cartilage regeneration at the tracheal anastomosis and whether the regenerated cartilage has the effect of reinforcing the anastomosis in a rabbit model. New Zealand white rabbits were anaesthetized, and the cervical trachea was exposed through a cervical midline incision, followed by resection of the 10th tracheal cartilage. The rabbits were categorized into 2 groups: the bFGF group (n = 6) and the control group (n = 6). In the former group, bFGF (25 μg) was administered into the submucosal layer of the cartilage using a 27-G needle immediately before tracheal anastomosis. The animals were sacrificed 4 weeks later. Histological, mechanical and biochemical evaluations were performed on this anastomosed trachea. At 4 weeks of age, the anastomoses were spindle-shaped and displayed maximum diameter at the injection site compared with those in the control group. Histological evaluation showed that cartilage tissue had regenerated between the 9th and 11th tracheal cartilage rings. Tensile test showed that the anastomoses displayed a significantly high strain/stress ratio (P = 0.035). The collagen type II and glycosaminoglycan levels were significantly increased, and the collagen type I level was significantly decreased (P = 0.019, P = 0.013 and P = 0.045, respectively). A new wound-healing concept of airway anastomosis could be provided by the results that single injection of bFGF regenerated tracheal cartilage in rabbits and strengthened the anastomosis by bridging the regenerated and well-matured cartilage. Further investigation of this method will lead to potential clinical applications for reinforcement of tracheal anastomoses.

BFGF and insulin lead to migration of Müller glia to photoreceptor layer in rd1 mouse retina

Müller glia can act as endogenous stem cells and regenerate the missing neurons in the injured or degenerating retina in lower vertebrates. However, mammalian Müller glia, although can sometimes express stem cell markers and specific neuronal proteins in response to injury or degeneration, do not differentiate into functional neurons. We asked whether bFGF and insulin would stimulate the Müller glia to migrate, proliferate and differentiate into photoreceptors in rd1 mouse. We administered single or repeated (two or three) intravitreal injections of basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF;200 μg) and insulin (2 μg) in 2-week-old rd1 mice. Müller glia were checked for proliferation, migration and differentiation using immunostaining. A single injection resulted within 5 days in a decrease in the numbers of Müller glia in the inner nuclear layer (INL) and a corresponding increase in the outer nuclear layer (ONL). The total number of Müller glia in the INL and ONL was unaltered, suggesting that they did not proliferate, but migrated from INL to ONL. However, maintaining the Müller cells in the ONL for two weeks or longer required repeated injections of bFGF and insulin. Interestingly, all Müller cells in the ONL expressed chx10, a stem cell marker. We did not find any immunolabeling for rhodopsin, m-opsin or s-opsin in the Müller glia in the ONL.

Effect of a Single Injection of Basic Fibroblast Growth Factor into the Vocal Folds: A 36-Month Clinical Study

ObjectiveA single injection of basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) into the vocal folds of patients with glottal insufficiency has been shown to be effective for a few years. However, the long-term therapeutic effect of a single injection of bFGF into the vocal folds has yet to be demonstrated. In this study, the therapeutic effect of a single injection of bFGF into the vocal folds was investigated over several years by monitoring patients for 36 months following this treatment. MethodsNineteen patients with glottal insufficiency received injections of bFGF diluted to 20 μg/mL in the superficial layer of the lamina propria of the bilateral vocal folds. The following parameters were evaluated at preinjection baseline and 6, 12, 18, 24, and 36 months later, and statistical comparisons were performed. The parameters evaluated were: the Grade, Rough, Breathy, Asthenic, and Strained (GRBAS) scale score; maximum phonation time; acoustic analysis; and glottal wave analysis (GWA) and kymograph edge analysis (KEA) using high-speed digital imaging (HSDI). The amplitude perturbation quotient (APQ) and period perturbation quotient (PPQ) were measured by acoustic analysis. The mean minimum glottal area during vocalization and mean minimum distance between the vocal folds were measured by GWA. The amplitudes of the bilateral vocal folds were measured by KEA. ResultsPostinjection, the GRBAS scale score decreased from 6 months after injection, and maximum phonation time was prolonged. The mean minimum glottal area during vocalization and the mean minimum distance between the vocal folds calculated by GWA of HSDI decreased significantly after 6 months. These effects persisted until 36 months postinjection. APQ and PPQ derived from acoustic analysis tended to decrease, but not significantly. There was no clear change in the amplitudes of the bilateral vocal folds calculated by KEA of HSDI before and after injection. ConclusionsThese results suggest that the effects of a single injection of bFGF into the vocal folds persist for 36 months.

Intracordal Injection of Basic Fibroblast Growth Factor in 100 Cases of Vocal Fold Atrophy and Scar.

Vocal fold atrophy, scar, and sulcus reduce the vibratory function of the vocal fold mucosa, which causes severe refractory dysphonia. We have reported encouraging preliminary results using an intracordal injection of basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) and showed improvement in phonatory parameters and voice. The present study summarizes our experience with 100 cases of stiffened vocal folds that were treated with bFGF injections. Retrospective chart review with Interstitial Review Board (IRB) approval. Local injection of bFGF was performed in 100 cases of vocal fold pathology, which included 43 cases of vocal fold atrophy, 41 cases with scar, and 16 cases with sulcus. Ten micrograms of bFGF were injected into the vocal folds under topical anesthesia 4 times in each patient. Therapeutic outcomes were examined with maximum phonation time (MPT), voice handicap index-10 (VHI-10), and GRBAS scale. MPT, VHI-10, and GRBAS scores significantly improved in all pathology groups. An improvement on the VHI-10 greater than five points was observed in 82% of atrophy cases, 78% of scar cases, and 67% of sulcus cases. Improvement on the VHI-10 was significantly better in the atrophy group than the scar or sulcus groups. The mild/moderate cases of scar and sulcus showed better improvement than severe cases. The current large case series indicates positive effects of intracordal injection of bFGF for improvement of voice with no severe adverse events. The effects appeared best for cases of atrophy, while the treatment of severe scar and sulcus requires further improvement. 4 Laryngoscope, 131:2059-2064, 2021.

Pigment Epithelium-Derived Factor (PEDF) Fragments Prevent Mouse Cone Photoreceptor Cell Loss Induced by Focal Phototoxicity In Vivo.

Here, we evaluated the effects of PEDF (pigment epithelium-derived factor) and PEDF peptides on cone-photoreceptor cell damage in a mouse model of focal LED-induced phototoxicity (LIP) in vivo. Swiss mice were dark-adapted overnight, anesthetized, and their left eyes were exposed to a blue LED placed over the cornea. Immediately after, intravitreal injection of PEDF, PEDF-peptide fragments 17-mer, 17-mer[H105A] or 17-mer[R99A] (all at 10 pmol) were administered into the left eye of each animal. BDNF (92 pmol) and bFGF (27 pmol) injections were positive controls, and vehicle negative control. After 7 days, LIP resulted in a consistent circular lesion located in the supratemporal quadrant and the number of S-cones were counted within an area centered on the lesion. Retinas treated with effectors had significantly greater S-cone numbers (PEDF (60%), 17-mer (56%), 17-mer [H105A] (57%), BDNF (64%) or bFGF (60%)) relative to their corresponding vehicle groups (≈42%). The 17-mer[R99A] with no PEDF receptor binding and no neurotrophic activity, PEDF combined with a molar excess of the PEDF receptor blocker P1 peptide, or with a PEDF-R enzymatic inhibitor had undetectable effects in S-cone survival. The findings demonstrated that the cone survival effects were mediated via interactions between the 17-mer region of the PEDF molecule and its PEDF-R receptor.

Therapeutic Efficacy of Basic Fibroblast Growth Factor in Patients With Vocal Fold Atrophy.

In recent years, basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) injection has been used in the treatment of aging-related vocal fold atrophy. This injection not only improves closure by increasing the mass of the vocal fold but also improves its viscoelasticity. However, it has been reported that fibroblasts targeted by bFGF treatment decrease in number with age. The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of local injection of bFGF on age-related vocal atrophy as well as the influence of age on phonological outcomes. Retrospective chart review. Fifty-three patients with age-related vocal fold atrophy underwent single injections of bFGF in their vocal folds. Phonological outcomes were evaluated 3 and 6 months after injection by acoustic and aerodynamic measurements. Voice Handicap Index (VHI), maximum phonation time (MPT), jitter, shimmer, and pitch range improved after injection, and the effects continued for 6 months. In those over 70 years of age, VHI and MPT showed improvement at 3 and 6 months after injection. In addition, the degree of improvement in VHI and MPT did not differ significantly between those older than 70 years and those younger than 70 years. Regenerative treatments dependent on bFGF single injection was safe and effective for both early and late elderly patients suffering of vocal fold atrophy. 2c Laryngoscope, 2020.

Injection of bFGF for Glottal Insufficiency

Injection of bFGF for Glottal Insufficiency

Single, high-dose local injection of bFGF improves thyroarytenoid muscle atrophy after paralysis.

Unilateral vocal fold paralysis (UVFP) induces hoarseness due to progressive atrophy of the denervated thyroarytenoid (TA) muscle. Therefore, treatments aimed at regenerating the atrophied TA muscle are required. Basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) is involved in muscle development and regeneration. This study aimed to elucidate the effects of bFGF injection on atrophied TA muscle. Animal research. A recurrent laryngeal nerve-paralysis rat model was established, and low- (200 ng) or high-dose (2,000 ng) bFGF or saline (control) was injected into the TA muscle 28 days later. The larynges were excised on day 1, 3, 7, 14, and 28 after treatment. The cross-sectional area of the TA muscle in normal and paralyzed sides was compared, and the Ki67-positive (Ki67+ ) dividing cells, paired box 7-positive (Pax7+ ) satellite cells (SCs), and myogenic differentiation-positive (MyoD+ ) myoblasts were counted. The TA muscle area of animals administered high-dose bFGF increased with time and was significantly larger than that of the saline-injected controls 28 days after treatment (P < .05). The counts of Ki67+ and Pax7+ cells were the highest on day 1, whereas the MyoD+ myoblast count was highest on day 7. These results suggest that bFGF administration into the denervated TA muscles compensated for the atrophied TA muscles by inducing proliferation of SCs and their differentiation to myoblasts. A single injection of high-dose bFGF augmented regeneration and differentiation of the atrophied TA muscle by enhancing proliferation and differentiation of muscle SCs, suggesting its possible clinical application in humans with UVFP. NA Laryngoscope, 130:159-165, 2020.

The role of growth factors in the treatment of voice disorders: systematic review

Objective The aim of this study was to present a review about the role of growth factors (GFs) in the treatment of some voice disorders. Materials and methods The data sources consisted of Medline databases (PubMed, Elsevier, and Wily Library) and all materials available in the internet from 1990 to 2017. The initial search presented 150 articles, of which 57 met the inclusion criteria, with level II-2 as the level of evidence. The articles studied the function, uses and the efficacy of basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) on vocal outcomes of patients with vocal fold (VF) lesions. If the studies did not fulfill the inclusion criteria, they were excluded. Study quality assessment included whether ethical approval was gained, eligibility criteria were specified, appropriate controls were used, adequate information was given and whether the studies defined assessment measures. Significant data were collected. It was heterogeneous. Thus, a structured review was performed with the results tabulated. Conclusion VF lesions and paralysis induced severe dysphonia, and the fundamental therapy for these diseases is voice therapy; however, this approach is ineffective for severe dysphonia. Surgical approaches have been attempted, but the outcome varies. The aim of surgical treatment has recently changed to stimulate the regeneration of VF structures. GF therapy is considered to be a 'trigger' for jumpstarting biological processes. One promising GF is bFGF. Cases of severe dysphonia that were treated by the single, transoral bFGF injection method showed significant improvements in the vocal functions after injection. The single injection method is easy to perform as an office procedure. The use of bFGF injection to treat severe VF lesions and VF paralysis is still controversial.

Adaptive change in temporomandibular joint tissue and mandibular morphology following surgically induced anterior disc displacement by bFGF injection in a rabbit model

PurposeThe purpose of this study was to examine the effect of injecting basic fibroblast growth factor following surgical induced anterior disc displacement in temporomandibular joints (TMJ). Materials and methodsAdult male Japanese white rabbits (n = 16; 2.0–2.5 kg; 10 weeks old) were assigned to experimental and control groups. In the experimental group, anterior disc displacement was induced in the bilateral TMJ. Recombinant human basic fibroblast growth factor (rh bFGF) 0.1 μg/1 μL aqueous solution was injected into the left retro-discal connective tissue close to the disc (ADL group), and saline alone was injected into the same site on the right (ADR group). In the control group, a sham operation without disc position change was performed in the bilateral TMJ (CR group and CL group). Four animals from the experimental (ADR and ADL) and control (CR and CL) groups were sacrificed at 1 and 12 weeks postoperatively to evaluate the mandibular morphology and computed tomographic (CT) value of the condylar head, using 3 dimensional computed tomography. Furthermore, cartilage layers and disc tissue were examined histologically. ResultsRegarding CT value at the 0° site of the condylar surface, ADR showed the lowest value after 1 week (P = 0.0325). However, there were no significant differences among the 4 groups regarding CT values at the other degree sites after 1 and 12 weeks. Regarding mandibular length, ADR showed the lowest value after 12 weeks (P = 0.0079). In condylar width, ADR showed the lowest value after 1 week (P = 0.0097). ConclusionThis study suggested that surgically induced anterior disc displacement could affect condylar morphology in the early stage, and could decrease mandibular length in the late stage. However, bFGF injection into the TMJ might prevent the degenerative change derived from anterior disc displacement and inhibition of sequential mandibular growth.

Safety and short-term outcomes of basic fibroblast growth factor injection for sulcus vocalis

Background: Sulcus vocalis (SV) is characterized by the appearance of a groove and fibrotic changes in the vocal fold mucosa and an often irrevocable loss of tissue viscoelasticity and vibratory potential. Although several surgical approaches have been proposed, none are ideal treatments. Basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) may stimulate fibroblasts in the superficial layer of the lamina propria (SLP) and increase the vibration of vocal fold mucosa. Aims/objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety and short-term outcomes of bFGF injection for SV. Materials and methods: This study was registered with the University Hospital Medical Information Network-Clinical Trials Registry (UMIN000019347). Twelve cases of pathological SV were treated using a method involving bFGF injection. The treatment regimen involved the injection of 50 µg of bFGF into the SLP. More than 3 months after the injection, aerodynamic and acoustic outcomes were examined. Results: No adverse events were recorded. Significant improvements were observed in the maximum phonation time (MPT) and Voice Handicap Index (VHI) after treatment. Multiple injections achieved additional effects. Conclusions and significance: bFGF injection may be a safe and suitable office-based surgery for the alleviation of hoarseness caused by SV based on this preliminary short-term study.

Long-term follow-up of tracheal cartilage growth promotion by intratracheal injection of basic fibroblast growth factor

BackgroundIntratracheal injection of basic fibroblast growth factor (b-FGF) has been shown to enlarge the tracheal lumen 4 weeks after treatment. The objective of this study was to investigate the long-term effect of tracheal cartilage growth promotion by intratracheal injection of b-FGF. Materials and methodsNew Zealand white rabbits were classified into four groups to receive either distilled water alone (Group 1; n = 16; control), 40 μg (Group 2; n = 10), 100 μg (Group 3; n = 13), or 200 μg (Group 4; n = 16) of b-FGF dissolved in water. The treatment was injected into the posterior wall of the cervical trachea using a tracheoscope. The animals were sacrificed 4 or 12 weeks later. ResultsFour weeks after treatment, the mean luminal areas of tracheas for Groups 1, 2, 3, and 4 were 27.2, 25.6, 32.2, and 36.2 mm2, respectively. At 12 weeks, these were 29.3, 37.9, 42.5, and 56.0 mm2, respectively. The levels of glycosaminoglycan at 12 weeks were 93.9, 152.5, 123.2, and 210.6 μg/mg, respectively. At 12 weeks, the levels of type II collagen were 77.2, 133.1, 99.2, and 148.9 μg/mg, respectively. ConclusionTwelve weeks after a single injection of b-FGF, the mean luminal area of the trachea continued to increase.

Comparative Evaluation of the Efficacy of Laser Therapy and Fibroblastic Growth Factor Injection on Mucosal Wound Healing in Rat Experimental Model.

Introduction: The aim of the present study was to compare the effects of laser and basic fibroblastic growth factor (bFGF) treatment on operative wound healing in a rat model. Methods: Sixty-six male Wistar rats were employed in this study. A 10-mm surgical wound was created on the buccal mucosa of each rat, under anesthesia, and then the rats were divided into 3 groups of 22: (1) GF group (received subcutaneous injection of bFGF), (2) laser group (treated with low-level laser irradiation), and (3) control group (received no treatment). On day 5, half of the rats in each group and on day 10 the other half, were sacrificed. Afterward, samples were taken from rats' buccal mucosa for histological assay and scoring. The data were analyzed using MannWhitney test (α =5%). Results: On day 5 there was not any significant difference between GF and control groups; however, the laser group showed clinically delayed wound coverage, compared to other groups (P<0.05). On day 10, histological examination demonstrated marked vascular granulation tissue ( GT) in GF group. Collagen production was significantly prominent in laser group compared to GF treated samples (P=0.004). Inflammation of GT in GF and laser groups was significantly less than that in control samples (P=0.005 and P=0.001, respectively). Conclusion: The components of wound matrix induced by GF and laser treatment were significantly different. Although bFGF or laser treatment of oral wounds, under the conditions of the present study, did not accelerate wound healing, they showed some other notable effects on the quality of healing.

Basic fibroblast growth factor enhances cell proliferation in the dentate gyrus of neonatal rats following hypoxic–ischemic brain damage

BackgroundPerinatal hypoxic–ischemic insult is considered a major contributor to child mortality and morbidity and leads to neurological deficits in newborn infants. There has been a lack of promising neurotherapeutic interventions for hypoxic–ischemic brain damage (HIBD) for clinical application in infants. The present study aimed to investigate the correlation between neurogenesis and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) in the hippocampal dentate gyrus (DG) region in neonatal rats following HIBD. Material and methodsCell proliferation was examined by detecting BrdU signals, and the role of bFGF in cell proliferation in the DG region following neonatal HIBD was investigated. ResultsCell proliferation was induced by HIBD in the hippocampal DG of neonatal rats. Furthermore, bFGF gene expression was upregulated in the hippocampus in neonatal rats, particularly between 7 and 14 days after HIBD. Moreover, intraperitoneal injection of exogenous bFGF enhanced cell proliferation in the hippocampal DG following neonatal HIBD. ConclusionsTaken together, these data indicate that cell proliferation in the DG could be induced by neonatal HIBD, and bFGF promotes proliferation following neonatal HIBD.