Chitosan-fibrinogen-thrombin matrix accelerates re-epithelialization and cornification in a rat wound healing model

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Regenerative Medicine
• Wound Healing Research

Background:

• Developing advanced wound dressings is crucial for improving healing processes.
• Chitosan-based matrices offer potential for tissue regeneration due to their biocompatibility.
• Evaluating the efficacy of enriched matrices requires comprehensive assessment of healing parameters.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate a chitosan-fibrinogen-thrombin (CFT) matrix, with and without autologous cells and fatty acid sodium salt (FASS), for enhanced wound closure and regeneration.
• To compare the CFT matrix treatments against controls like lubricating jelly and cell suspension.
• To assess the impact of matrix components on tissue repair, vascularization, and mechanical properties.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a rat excisional wound model with six treatment groups.
• Assessed wound closure, tissue thickness, and mechanical resistance at day 14.
• Performed histological and immunostaining analyses for cellular and matrix components (e.g., CD31, CD68, collagen).

Main Results:

• CFT matrix promoted keratinocyte migration and epithelialization, forming a supportive crust.
• No significant benefit was observed from adding autologous cells or FASS to the CFT matrix.
• All treated wounds showed increased angiogenesis and macrophage presence, with immature collagen deposition.
• Mechanical properties (thickness, resistance) approached those of native skin, indicating near-functional recovery.

Conclusions:

• The intrinsic properties of the CFT matrix are key drivers of wound healing, providing a biocompatible barrier.
• The CFT matrix facilitates granulation tissue formation and keratinocyte migration, essential for wound closure.
• While the matrix supports repair, further investigation into optimizing cell and FASS integration may be warranted for accelerated or more mature healing.