A Lead Target Molecule for Excisional Wound Healing: Trypthantrin Compound

We aimed to evaluate the impact of the tryptanthrin (TRP) compound, with antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects, on the excisional wound (EW) model. In an EW model in mice, we tried to explain the possible effect of TRP through vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) that contribute significantly to wound healing.

A total of 90 BALB-C female mice aged 6 - 8 weeks were used in the present study. Animals were randomly divided into five groups. After creating the EW model, three different doses (1, 2.5, 5 mg/kg) of TRP compound were applied topically for 14 days, and wound closure rates were measured on days 0, 3, and 7. Vascular endothelial growth factor and MMP-9 were evaluated on days 3, 7, and 14 on wound explants and on day 14 on serum samples by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Histopathological analysis was performed on wound explants.

After the EW model creation, significant healing of the wound areas was observed in the groups for which TRP was applied, especially on the third day. Moreover, in groups that received the third dose of TRP, the wound closure rate was 94%. It was found that the wound areas were closed due to the increase in TRP dose. In line with wound healing, VEGF and MMP-9 levels gradually rose on the third and seventh days and decreased on the 14th day.

Tryptanthrin compound usage on the EW model increased wound healing and did not leave a scar after 14 days.