Effects of topical vildagliptin versus triamcinolone acetonide on experimentally induced hypertrophic scars in a...

The present study aimed to evaluate the effects of topical vildagliptin on experimentally induced hypertrophic scars (HTSs) in a rabbit model. A total of 40 healthy male albino rabbits were randomly assigned to five groups (n = 8): healthy control (CTRL), untreated induced HTS model (HTS model), vehicle-received (VEH), 0.1% triamcinolone acetonide-treated (TAC), and 3% vildagliptin-treated (VIL). On day 0, four full-thickness wounds extending to the cartilage were created on the ventral surface of each rabbit ear using an 8-mm biopsy punch. On day 30, topical treatment was initiated on the newly formed scars and continued twice daily for 21 days. Samples were collected on day 51 post-wounding. Outcome measures included molecular quantification of collagen type 1 (Col I), collagen type 3 (Col III), transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-β1), interleukin 6 (IL-6), histopathological examination, and alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) immunoreactivity. Vildagliptin significantly reduced Col I, Col III, TGF-β1, and IL-6 compared with the HTS model group (p < 0.001). Histopathological analysis revealed a marked improvement in scar architecture, as evidenced by lower histopathological scores and a reduced scar elevation index. Masson's trichrome (MT) staining demonstrated a significant reduction in collagen deposition, accompanied by partial restoration of normal collagen fiber organization. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed no significant change in α-SMA immunoreactivity. This more likely reflects a potential incomplete suppression of myofibroblasts. Overall, these findings suggest that topical vildagliptin may represent a promising therapeutic approach for the treatment of HTSs.