Effect and mechanism of non-homopolymeric schizophyllan in wound healing

Schizophyllan (SPG), a polysaccharide produced from Schizophyllum commune (S. commune), is recognized for its diverse biological functions, such as antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Despite these potential benefits, research into its application in wound repair remains limited, particularly regarding non-homopolymeric SPG. This study utilized liquid fermentation with the S. commune 5.43 to produce SPG. In vitro studies examined the effects and mechanisms of SPG on the proliferation, migration and antioxidant stress of HaCaT and HUVEC cells. In vivo, full-thickness skin wound model was created in BALB/c mice to evaluate SPG's wound healing effects. The results indicated that SPG significantly promoted the proliferation of HaCaT and HUVEC cells and enhanced HUVEC cells migration. It also promoted the expression of cell cycle regulatory factors, ECM remodeling and antioxidant-related genes, while reducing oxidative stress induced by H₂O₂. In vivo, SPG outperformed 3 M hydrogel dressing, achieving a 96.65 % wound healing rate in BALB/c mice, significantly improving wound healing and epithelialization. In summary, SPG may promote wound healing through mechanisms such as regulating the cell cycle, facilitating ECM remodeling, and enhancing the expression of antioxidant genes. These findings provide a foundation for the application of SPG in skin repair and emphasize their potential as natural therapeutics for wound healing and tissue regeneration.