Abstract:

Objective     To observe expression of transforming growth factor β1(TGF-β1) in second-degree scald tissues in diabetic rats, and investigate the effect of TGF-β1 on the wound healing process. Methods       Eighteen SD rats were randomly divided into 3 groups: the scald group (control group), the diabetic scald group (diabetic group) and the diabetic scald with TGF-β1 treatment group (TGFβ1 group), 6 rats in each group. Rats in the diabetic group and the TGF-β1 group were treated with streptozotocin to induce diabetes, and second-degree scald models were established. After model establishment, local intra-dermal injection of TGF-β1 into the wound was performed in the TGF-β1 group. The unhealed areas of wounds were recorded and wound healing rates were calculated 1, 3, 5, 7, 14 and 21 days after scald. The healing process was evaluated by histological examination, and expression of TGF-β1 was detected by the immunohistochemiscal technique. The data were statistically analyzed. Results       Five days after scald, the healing rate in the control group and the TGF-β1 group was significantly higher than that in the diabetic group (P<0.05), while there was no significant difference between the control group and the TGF-β1group. Compared with the control group, expression of TGF-β1 was lower in scald tissues in the diabetic group (P<0.05). Conclusion      The unfavorable healing process is related to decreased amount of TGF-β1 in diabetic wounds. Topical application of TGF-β1 can accelerate wound healing in diabetic rats.

Key words: Transforming growth factor β1; Diabetes mellitus; Wound healing