A Multicenter Randomized Controlled Trial Evaluating a Cx43-Mimetic Peptide in Cutaneous Scarring

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Wound Healing
• Regenerative Medicine

Background:

• Connexin 43 (Cx43) is a transmembrane protein involved in fibrotic processes, including inflammation and extracellular matrix regulation.
• Cx43 mimetic peptide aCT1 demonstrated preclinical efficacy in accelerating wound closure, reducing inflammation, and improving tissue mechanics.
• Surgical site scarring remains a significant concern, impacting both aesthetic and functional outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy and safety of aCT1 gel in reducing scar formation in human incisional wounds.
• To assess the long-term impact of aCT1 on scar appearance and characteristics.

Main Methods:

• A prospective, multicenter, within-participant controlled trial was conducted on patients with bilateral incisional wounds.
• Participants received either aCT1 gel plus standard care or standard care alone, applied acutely after surgery and 24 hours later.
• Scarring was assessed over 9 months using visual analog scales, Vancouver Scar Scale, and Global Assessment Scale.

Main Results:

• No significant difference in scar appearance was observed at 1 month post-treatment.
• At 9 months, aCT1-treated incisions showed a 47% improvement in scar scores (Vancouver Scar Scale) compared to controls (P=0.0045).
• Significant improvements were noted in Global Assessment Scale scores (P=0.0009), pigmentation, thickness, surface roughness, and mechanical suppleness.

Conclusions:

• aCT1 gel treatment significantly improves scar quality in human incisional wounds by 9 months post-surgery.
• The peptide demonstrated a favorable safety profile, with similar adverse events between treatment and control groups.
• aCT1 holds potential as a therapeutic agent to enhance surgical scarring outcomes.