C₆₀ fullerene promotes post-traumatic recovery of the rat muscle gastrocnemius

The remarkable antioxidant capabilities of biocompatible and safe C₆₀ fullerenes have extensive applications in biomedicine. This study is the first to present an investigation into the effect of water-soluble C₆₀ fullerenes on post-traumatic recovery of the muscle gastrocnemius in rats.

Tensometry was used to investigate the biomechanical parameters of muscle contraction, specifically the times of reaching and holding the maximum force response of the muscle, and the return of muscle contraction force to the initial value after cessation of stimulation. Blood biochemical indicators were assessed, including concentrations of c-reactive protein, lactate, creatinine, and reduced glutathione, as well as superoxide dismutase and catalase activities 5, 10, and 15 days after initiating open muscle injury. Histopathological analysis was also performed to examine the rat muscle gastrocnemius damage on day 15 after the onset of injury.

It was found that C₆₀ fullerenes reduced the stiffness of injured skeletal muscle, thereby slowing the development of fibrosis, and inhibiting the inflammatory process due to their antioxidant properties. There was also a reduction in histopathological features of muscle damage.

These findings suggest using of carbon nanoparticles to correct pathological conditions that may occur during the physiological repair of damaged muscle tissues.