Efficacy of resveratrol in the wound healing process by reducing oxidative stress and promoting fibroblast cell proliferation and migration

Abstract

Oxidative stress (OS) is implicated in the pathogenesis of diabetic, chronic, and inflamed wounds. In these cases, wound healing is difficult and remains a big clinical challenge. As fibroblasts are crucial in wound healing by producing extracellular matrix and wound contraction, the researchers investigated the resveratrol (RES) effects as a potential therapeutic alternative, on an in vitro OS and wound healing model established by 3T3 Swiss Albino fibroblasts. OS was induced by H2O2, and 1-100 mu M RES doses were applied on cells for up to 48 hours. The cell proliferation was assessed by the population doubling time and bromodeoxyuridine immunocytochemistry. The OS levels were determined by fluorescence staining and all values were calculated by the ImageJ program. The collagen-I expression (COL1A2 mRNA) was evaluated by a real-time PCR. Cell migration was evaluated by wound closure assay and the ultrastructure was evaluated by electron microscopy. The cell proliferation index significantly decreased in H(2)O(2)incubation and increased with RES application. RES application reduced OS levels and stabilized cell proliferation, but no differences were found in COL1A2 mRNA expression. RES-treated cells showed better proliferation, migration rates, and ultrastructural preservation. RES administration decreases OS levels and improves the healing process by increasing cell proliferation and migration quality, suggesting it is a powerful candidate for the treatment of skin wounds.