Effect of β-Cryptoxanthin on Healing of Excisional and Incisional Wounds in Rat: An Animal Model Study

Wound healing consists of inflammatory, proliferation and remodeling phases. The objective of the current study was to investigate the effect of β-Cryptoxanthin on wound healing. Thirty healthy adult male Wistar rats were randomized into three groups of ten animals each (5 for excisional and 5 for incisional wound model): (1) SHAM group with only wound creation. (2) OINTMENT group: As a control group with wound creation as well as 5 g ointment (Vaseline/ Eucerin) administered locally to the wound bed. (3) BCX group: As a treatment group with wound creation as well as 5 g ointment (Vaseline/ Eucerin) containing β-Cryptoxanthin (25 mg/g ointment) administered locally to the wound bed. An incisional wound model was used for biomechanical studies, while an excisional wound model was used for biochemical, histopathological, and planimetric assessments. The wound area was significantly reduced in the BCX group compared to other groups (P > .05). Biomechanical indices from the BCX group were significantly improved compared to other experimental groups (P > .05). Biochemical and quantitative histopathological analyses revealed a significant difference between BCX and other groups (P > .05). β-Cryptoxanthin showed the potential to improve wound healing significantly. This appeared to work by angiogenesis stimulation, fibroblast proliferation, inflammation reduction, and granulation tissue formation during the initial stages of the healing process. This accelerated healing led to earlier wound area reduction and enhanced tensile strength of the damaged area due to the reorganization of granulation tissue and collagen fibers.